Are you pouring from an empty cup (again)?


Reader

As a multi-passionate entrepreneur and mom, I know how easy it is to get caught up in the never-ending cycle of work, caregiving, and people-pleasing. I also know from personal experience that prioritizing your personal time is not selfish and not optional, it's essential.

I know this because I didn’t do it enough when I was a caregiver for my mom (who had Alzheimer's) while also raising my two very young kiddos. I spent years in survival mode and rarely took time for me. I denied myself what I wanted and what I needed. Looking back, that’s what I would change and that’s a trap I want to help you avoid.

Whether you're juggling a business, family responsibilities, or creative pursuits, the challenges are real:

  • As a caregiver, the sense of duty and guilt can make it so hard to put yourself first.
  • As a multi-passionate creative, the fear of missing out can lead to over-commitment and exhaustion.
  • As a people pleaser, you believe you need to come last, which ironically ends up in both you and those you serve suffering for it.

Sacrifice sounds so giving and glorious, but here's the thing...

Your cup needs to be filled before you can pour into others. Personal time isn't about pampering and goofing off (though it can be). It's about taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional needs. It's about giving your mind and body a chance to recharge so you can boost your productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. And then imagine how well you can serve others!

In my latest podcast episode, I share what it actually takes to prioritize personal time, like setting boundaries and scheduling time in your calendar, and why you want to, which has so much do to with my own personal experiences.

I walk you through a powerful 3-step process I use with my clients to help you:

  1. Decide that personal time (and the self-care within) is a non-negotiable
  2. Determine what your unique self-care needs are, and
  3. Designate and protect that personal time in your schedule

I also share tips on communicating your boundaries with loved ones, giving yourself permission to say no, and seeking support from your community.

In it I mention the Joy List workbook, which is part of the Positively Productive Toolkit. You may already have access to this since we're chatting here. If you don't, or have lost track, click HERE.

If you're ready to stop pouring from an empty cup and start living a more proactive, positive, and sustainable life, I invite you to tune in and to stay connected with me and this community.

Here's to filling your cup. You so deserve it.

Lisa


P.S. The PODCAST page of the website has the most current episode listed, corresponding blog posts to each episode, a search feature, and a bunch of playlists that curate the episodes on a specific topic. It's a great way to navigate the episodes and figure out what you want to listen to next.


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Positively_Lisa

I’m Lisa Zawrotny, a Productivity Coach, host of the Positively Living® Podcast, and founder of Positively Productive Systems, on a mission to redefine productivity with compassion. I help overwhelmed clients ditch hustle culture and design shame-free, personalized systems that lead to sustainable success—without burnout or sacrificing what they love. I believe productivity is meant to support a more satisfying, joy-filled life. For me, that means road-tripping with my husband and teens, making music with my family and friends, and inspiring others with my voice. One of my favorite ways to recharge is curling up with a book, an iced coffee, and a cat on my lap. ------------------------------------------- Check out the resources I offer below and request my Toolkit to reduce overwhelm, boost energy, and align your actions with your values!

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