Guess what? Starting over is normal. Rebranding is normal. Moving on is normal. Reinventing yourself is normal. I've done this plenty of times and feel I'm overqualified when it comes to advice on this subject #lol. It took me a while to be unashamed of the number of times I've decided to start over. Take a deep look inside and understand why there is so much stigma about taking a small (or big) break. All day on social media (and real life) we see constant movement from our family, friends, peers, gurus, entertainers, and influencers. Even our kids seem to be always doing something. We've glamorized this #teamnosleep mentality when a lot of us just don't have it in us...and that's okay. But if you have the #hustlehard mentality and the hustle is taking a toll on you, or there is little to no return, take a break. Re-center, re-evaluate, and refocus. The last thing you want is a burnout. So, let's discuss a several mental strategies that will help you utilize your time off wisely.
Who Cares What People Think.
People don't like to admit this but, most of us care what others think. And honestly, those who truly care will notice your absence, and reach out. No matter what others think, you are doing it for you. So many positives come with it, so stay focused on what's ahead. Understand that people are going to make their own conclusions even when you're honest about everything. Also, most people are too consumed with their own lives to even notice your absence. This is why you have to value those that do notice and reach out to you with pure intentions and sincerity.
Set Some Goals.
The greatest part of a break are the new beginnings. How will you reinvent yourself? Write the goals you want to accomplish during the break. What changes do you want to make? Whether it's business or personal, setting goals keeps you working and growing during the break.
Take Care of Yourself.
Implement self-care habits. These will make you feel like the new person you're about to become. At least once a week, dedicate a day for yourself. Skincare, haircare, dates, travel, read, healthy eating habits, exercise, meditate, or learn a new skill/hobby.
Be Quiet.
Stay away from the constant updating. You owe no one an explanation. Be quiet about what you're working on. This alleviates the fears of others projected onto you. If you're constantly on social media, there is no need to speak on your process (unless you want to). You need help with something? Ask specific, trusted people for helpful resources.
Prepare For a New Following.
You will be a changed person so that means your following should be different. Think about the people in your life, currently. Do they serve a valuable purpose? Do they value you? Do they appreciate you? Do they celebrate you? Are you involved with entities that try to hold you back? Who do you follow on social media? Are you in meaningful social media groups? These are vital questions to ask yourself during your break. There is no point in changing yourself but not those around you. The best thing about this is most (toxic) people will eventually remove themselves, but it starts with the change in you.
Learn From your Mistakes.
Making a comeback but doing things better is a flex. Usually, we start over because something isn't right or more needs to be done. Identify the problem, write down what it is that you want to do better, and work towards that. From the words of the world's fastest woman, Sha'Carri Richardson, "I'm not back, I'm better!"
No Regrets!
Do not allow yourself or others to make you feel bad about your decision to step back. The fact that you're not giving up says so much about your character. No matter how bad you think it may have been, understand that it happened for a reason. Don't look back regretting the very thing that started you on your way. You are here now, wanting to do better is what matters.
Get Excited!
The energy that drives this comeback should be enthusiastic! Be happy about this change! Smile about the process. Don't be so hard on yourself. Laugh, engage with new resources, and have fun learning new things. Making a comeback is supposed to look good, feel good, and be good! Be happy and grateful that you have everything you need within to have an amazing comeback!
Think about a time when you made a comeback. What did you learn about yourself? How was your attitude during the process? What fears did you overcome? Was anyone there for you? What ignited this need for a comeback?
Please feel free to explain your experiences with your comeback. What are some things, not listed above, that helped you? We'd love to hear from you.
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