Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you felt out of place? Or uninterested? Or distracted? Or a little lost?
Me too.
I had a headache; I was tired; I didn’t have nearly enough coffee; my head was in many places. Needless to say, I wasn’t present.
I watched as presenters went on stage and spoke and I couldn’t focus, I couldn’t connect to them or their message, and I knew it had nothing to do with them but rather, everything to do with me.
My inner dialogue was telling me that I should stay, that I shouldn’t leave, that I paid to be here and should soak in every single word shared with me. But then I questioned what I was gaining by not being present. How is that beneficial? How is that serving me?
So I left.
I grabbed my purse, my notes, my water bottle, and I left. I’ve said many times before that self care means it’s okay to be a little selfish sometimes. This was my time to be selfish. My choice to leave wasn’t going to impact anyone or anyone else’s experience but my own.
I walked a mile in the sunshine, fresh air, and heat for a much needed coffee. Simple pleasures are often the best things and that walk, to and from, that black coffee that I drank while sitting on the floor in the back of the hall where I felt more comfortable did not impact those around me, but it changed everything for me.
It’s okay to leave. Whatever that means for you. Maybe it’s that pause, or a trip, or a walk for coffee, it’s okay to leave when it’s something that YOU need for YOU.
It’s okay to leave, even when you fear you may disappoint others or not live up to their expectations.
It’s okay to leave when you need a break or fresh air or to move to a different space.
It’s okay to leave even when you paid money or have given hours.
It’s okay to leave and know that you will be coming back ready to hear your message with a fresh mind and open heart.
What’s most important is knowing that you can.
The question is: Will you give yourself permission?
PIN IT
