I just need some Internet hugs. I am completely overwhelmed. Teaching a new class online, meetings I hate, conducting a research study, feels like every tiny stressor gets to me. Having unrealistic expectations, not being very nice to myself, feel like I have to get it all done NOW and it is taking forever to do it. Impatient... and of course the physical symptoms have started. It's all in my gut. I am trying to slow down and increased my relaxation back to 3 times a day. It's hard for me to ask for help, but I know the folks on this forum can relate!

{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{Rica}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}

Take slow, deep breathes.

You are calm, you are relaxed, you are capable, you are intelligent, you are organized, you will manage this situation with professionalism.

You are capable of being patient, loving and compassionate with yourself. You will put your best effort towards the projects and that WILL be sufficient, because you know in your heart, you did your best.

Set realistic goals and try not to do too much. You do not need to be superwoman. (I have learned this and it is SO liberating!)

Also, do not be so hard on yourself. I know we tend to be overachievers and over extenders for additonal responsibilities. If you have to say NO here and there, do it.

Rica, take care of yourself. Treat yourself. Make a bubble bath, grab a soothing CD and a good book and soak yourself for an hour or so. It helps me when I feel overwhelmed. I hope you can find some "me" time over the weekend.

Thank you so very much, schnauzermom. I really "felt" that hug! I set some realistic guidelines about what I needed versus wanted to accomplish. I said NO to an invitation- felt a bit guilty about it, but also realized I didn't need one more thing I had to prepare for right now and it wasn't a fun invitation. I also got a massage and feel much better. I printed your affirmations so I can read them over and over. I do thank you!

Rica,
I hear you hon, started having IBS-D tuesday, think i do great when things in a crisis, its afterward they get me, and my gut. So heres a big ((((((((((((((((HUG))))))))))))). Do what you can today, the rest can wait. Love ya Nelly

Here's another hug {{{{{{{{{Rica}}}}}}}

I hope you will treat yourself extra special during this time. You are increasing your relaxation opportunities, and that is great! Keep doing things just for you; you deserve it!

{{{{{{{{{schnauzermom}}}}}}}, {{{{{{{{{Nelly}}}}}}},
{{{{{{{{{Julie}}}}}}}
Hugs are great! I think I let myself get hug deficient from time to time!
I'm doing okay and gut is doing better. Still very absorbed in what needs to get done and still more stressed than I'd like, but I'm not completely overwhelmed anymore and I'm being more patient about accomplishing tasks. I am going to need to work a bit on my perfectionism and that's okay.
Thanks to all of you. It has really, really been helpful to feel your support!

{{{{{{{Rica}}}}}}}}

I hope your week was more peaceful. . Take care of yourself!

Go easy on yourself, you ARE your best friend.

Liz B

God Bless you for your note, Liz B. I was feeling all sorry for myself and then you post a message to remind me how much people care and how great it is to have people who really know what you're going through!

{{{{{{Rica}}}}}}

{{{{{{{BIG HUGS}}}}}}}}}}

God Bless you too sweetie! There are many people that care and love you so much. We love and care about you. God loves you too. Don't ever forget that!