With all of the stressors of day-to-day living, not including added stress of the unexpected, it’s easy to become worn down. We go to the same jobs, we eat the same lunches, and we have the same evening routines. But how do break up the monotony? It’s easy; ask yourself the following question:

What do you for you?

It’s an important question, because so often we all get bogged down with doing for others that we forget to attend to our own basic needs, emotions, and feelings. Are you stressed at work? Do you have issues in your personal life that are making you feel sad or depressed? And how often do you pay attention to these feelings?

Recently, Paula asked herself the same question and she discovered a myriad of new hobbies and possibilities! One of which is the art of water coloring. Her dear friend, Donna, was already an accomplished watercolor painter and offered to teach her how.

The two turned Paula’s dock house into a painting studio last summer; they opened the windows and let the breeze from the Intercoastal water inspire them. In only a few sessions, Paula felt more at peace with herself and was churning out paintings for her closest friends and family members.

Here are a few of Paula’s creations:

Don’t worry, folks. The moral of this story isn’t to run out and pick up a paintbrush. Rather, it’s about slowing down, and taking a moment for you. Learn to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you- big or small. Do you like to draw? Knit? Cook? Whatever it may be, listen to yourself, cultivate your talents and watch them grow. We guarantee that you’ll be glad you did.

So ask yourself one more time: What do you do for you?

Let us know in the comments below!