When the wheels fell off - literally

When the wheels fell off - literally
Lessons in limits

In hindsight, the trailer (pictured above) was definitely overloaded.

It was one of those do-it-yourself jobs, welded together by my father-in-law and husband.  And we were headed down to Tennessee for some serious family fun.

Bikes, kayaks, paddle boards, clothes, camping supplies - all of that (and more) was perched on the trailer.  

We were only 45 minutes from home when the van gave a tell-tale shudder.  Luke, our driver, exhaled sharply.  “Oh no, oh no!” 
 
There was just enough time to move sharply into the shoulder and rumble to a slow roll before the trailer’s front right wheel gave way. 
 
The exasperated wheel shot off the overloaded trailer, careening across the median to collide with a truck going 60 mph the opposite way. 

I can still see it that newly-freed tire, rolling along in the opposite direction, back towards Indianapolis.   
 
Stress is when demand outstrips capacity. 
 
And, if you don't purposefully manage that stress, things can quickly break down.

Growth demands rest
The Olympics have dominated my attention over the last week - elite athletes from around the world competing on horseback, in the water, and on tiny balance beams.

The world of physical training operates with a deep awareness of limits.  As an athlete, you cannot push your body to the max every day without inviting injury.

Their training regimens are finely attuned, building in rhythms of rest and stress for optimal results.

I might not be able to train like an Olympian, but I can wisely rest like an Olympian.  

What can you unload?
Last week, I was camping with my family in Maine.  Away from deliverables and emails, enjoying cooler temps, lingering nights around the fire, and climbing mountains.

We left because our bodies and spirits needed to have a break from the tyranny of to-do lists, unfolded laundry, and unread emails.

There is goodness in rest.  Consider this week's newsletter an invitation - if your life demands and mental load resemble that woefully overloaded trailer, take a moment to consider - what can I unload?

Where can I rest?

It might not be in a trip to Acadia (although I highly recommend it!), sustainable rest comes in daily/weekly rhythms as well.

Stretch your legs, take a walk around the block, read a few pages from that book/magazine you've been neglecting in favor of scrolling.  Make yourself some yummy food (or order it in!).

Go to bed an hour early, just for the heck of it.  Turn off your notifications after-hours on those work emails.  

By investing in your self-nurture, you will be more able to give care and show empathy to those around you.