I recently attended a writers conference where the daily schedule began with breakfast at 7:15AM, and the last evening session ended between 8:30 – 9:00PM, followed by additional networking or other fun activities. That conference isn’t a sprint. It’s definitely a marathon.
But the conference staff encourages everyone to take care of themselves. They plan the schedule to include 30 minutes between each session to give time to get to the next class on the large campus. And they give frequent reminders to drink plenty of water, rest when needed, and take the time to connect with other writers to give and receive encouragement. And there is constant prayer for everyone who attends.
The conference is a great guideline for the marathon of life. Every day, I must:
— Schedule enough time for what has to be completed, with space between to prepare for the next responsibility. One major cause of stress for me is to feel rushed and to be running late.
— Be mindful of physical needs. Drink enough water, eat healthy food, and exercise to maintain strength and endurance. If I’m not healthy physically, it’s almost impossible to be my best mentally, emotionally, or spiritually.
— Rest. It’s not just about getting enough sleep. I also need breaks from activities that take mental and emotional energy. Rest from planning every detail of life. Rest from worrying about anything. But mostly, rest in the Presence of God – to be renewed and given the strength and guidance for where the race takes me each moment.
— Take time to connect with people. To give encouragement, support, and care to others. And to receive the support that helps me run the race God designed.
I’m praying for everyone as we continue our marathon.
What helps you run your daily marathon?
Marathon – What helps you run your daily race? Share on XJoni Vance is an award-winning author of fiction, essay, and poetry. She loves mystery, history, and how God reveals Himself every day.
May God reveal the mystery of His love in your life story.
That was great to take the self care you learned from the conference and move those ideas over to your daily life. I’m always looking for more ways to be organized, healthy, productive and then slip in some self care, too.
Thank you, Joni. Great encouragement to run the race God designed for each of us–and at His pace.
All great reminders for self care, Joni. Thank you.
I appreciate you reading and commenting, Tim.
Thank you for these reminders Joni.
I’m glad the post was helpful, Judy. Thanks for reading and commenting. 🙂