I usually advise against blowing off due dates. I usually make every attempt to complete what is expected of me. But after trying and failing (or at least feeling like my attempts were not very successful) all last week, I made a conscious decision stop trying so hard... to take a break, regroup, rejuvenate... and yes, to reevaluate. I decided to take a Mental Health Weekend!
Haven't you ever needed to take a mental health day? I knew a day wouldn't be enough, so I weighed my pros and cons, and decided to take the whole weekend. After having a completely crappy week, the weekend was actually pretty great. I was able to spend time shopping with my daughter, had an actual date with my husband, got to spend some much needed catch-up time with my sister-in-law, had a fabulous night out with a close friend, and even enjoyed a lazy Sunday. Now I have the MondayBlues, with an extra dose of guilt for ignoring my homework the whole weekend. Playing catch up with homework, knowing the points I have lost for finishing everything late should make me even more depressed. But, I needed that weekend for myself. Paying the price is worth every minute of fun and relaxation I was able to enjoy. I also had plenty of time to ponder...
Have I taken on too much? Am I just too damn old for attempting another degree? Is a bachelors degree in nursing even worth all the time, money and effort? Did you know a BSN does not make more $/hour than an ADN? I knew that, and still I made the commitment to obtain my BSN. There will be more lateral opportunities for jobs with better hours and benefits after I obtain my BSN, one of which is being qualified to work for a school system and/or Social Services. But, thanks to Walker, that may not be enough incentive anymore! But after my glorious, nearly guilt-free, weekend off from all my responsibilities, I do have to admit I enjoy learning (Even though I hate tests). I am a geek at heart. So even if I hate deadlines... they are what motivate me.
Will it all be worth it in the end? I may not bring home a bigger paycheck, or ever get that coveted Monday thru Friday job, or even get a job that is strictly day shift. After my lovely weekend off, I am feeling pretty positive. I know it won't be easy, and I know I will assuredly flounder on and off through the process. But, I will have the self satisfaction of finishing what I started, of setting a goal and obtaining it, and I will probably learn a lot along the way. So, I guess my 'mental health' weekend was successful.
Sometimes a day to yourself, or even a weekend is very much needed. Sometimes you have to just take some steps back and fall behind. It takes some stress off your shoulders and puts you in a very much needed better mood. Take more time for yourself :)
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