9/6/24

 Yesterday in my leadership group, we focused on boundaries. I feel like I have a pretty decent grasp on setting boundaries for myself in preserving my energy. However, when I was listening to the leader talk about boundaries the homework assignment was to find ways to improve self-care.

I have been trying to think of ways to improve myself care. I have been stressed because my back has been so sore. Then it dawned on me. I need to call in and not work on Sunday night.

Normally, this is a foreign concept to me. I don’t call in sick to work. I power through my pain and I continue to work, but why? Why am I putting myself through this torture when I’m not feeling well? My advice to somebody in my position would be to stay home and rest and heal, so why do I hold myself to a different standard?

After much deliberation, I decided to send the email into my boss at the ER, establish my self-care and set my boundary. One of the hardest things that we learned about setting boundaries is how the boundary is received. Our boundary may be disappointing or angering to others. or we worry how our decision will affect others. I do feel bad that I am leaving my team short, but I have to take care of me before I can help someone else.

I do feel like I have plenty of notice to find coverage. So I feel I did the responsible thing.

This morning, my back was not well. I was unable to put my one sock on. I had to ask Ethan for help. The weirdest thing was, we have a trauma bond, so he was happy to help Mom put her sock on. 

Moe’s tracking device AND invisible fence collar arrived today. He is tagged and hopefully will respect the authority of the invisible fence collar.

I did A LOT of stretching today. I also was able to stand and work a bit, but did the majority of my work flat on the heating pad. By the afternoon, I walked outside a little bit while the dogs were watering and soiling the lawn.

Ethan helped with things around the house which was appreciated and helpful. Paul comes home from Philadelphia tonight, well after I go to sleep.

I feel that I had some back improvement today. I am hopeful for tomorrow and thankful that I called into work AND completed my homework assignment.