Taking Some Time

The thunder is grumbling outside...

It's Saturday afternoon and (believe or not) I literally just rolled out of bed about an hour ago (I actually did a double take on my watch when I looked!). Regardless, I shuffled my way to the kitchen, prepared myself a strong americano, turned on some groovy tunes and sat down to catch up on the Tour's first time trial...

The rain just started...and aside from the rhythmic sound of some old school Massive Attack playing in the background, it's quiet all around me. No pressure to do anything...No stress. I love it.

One of the most important things I've learned about myself over the past years is that I need two very important things in order to be fully content -

1. Take some time for yourself - If you know me, you know that I've always got something on the go. Work, play, friends, life...I love my busy lifestyle, but I also love my time alone. If I don't get enough of the latter, I get stressed out and unproductive in life. So don't be afraid to 'pull the plug' on life and get away from society - Lie on your hammock, listen to some music, read a book or just watch the leaves flicker...It's good for you.

2. Take the time - because nobody is going to give it to you! I first used this quote on someone else while in Halifax this year...and realized how true is actually is. I always hear of individuals talking about how little time they have to train, to travel, to do whatever. When's the last time your boss came up to you and said - "Phil, you know what? You've been working way too hard lately...you should take some time for yourself". OK, maybe it's not an impossible scenario, or maybe your employer is one of the select few on this planet that actually care (about your well being) but chances are if you don't take the time, there will always be something else to do.

There will always be somewhere to go, or shit to do - but this weekend - I'm taking some time for me.

I think I'll go for a run now...