Member Lifesavers

As soon as I get to work each day, I write a to-do list. It helps me stay on track, and crossing things off makes me feel great.

At the end of the day, almost everyday, I relax in a tub full of bubbles with an aromatherapy candle and listen to Delilah! It so nice to hear I am not alone with all of my problems. This is the only thing that has gotten me through some very rough times after losing my job. I can clear my mind or straighten out my thoughts and just "be". I just found a new company recently that makes awesome aromatherapy candles www.theearthselements.com and I truely have to say that they are the best chaning my mood!

Be aware of your own emotions and energy levels. It's nigh on impossible for many of us to take a day or even a whole hour to ourselves so make of list of small activities you can do in 10 minutes that recharge you. It could be you sit for 10 minutes reading before going into the office, go for a walk around the block at lunchtime, schedule a 10 minute chat with a friend - whatever it is that sustains and rejuvenates you. Then when you can feel yourself in need of a quick pick me up - do one of your 10 minute recharges. try and work up to fitting in 3 per day - that's 30 minutes to yourself! Find creative ways to do it - come on, we can all find 10 minutes!

Bringing my own lunch to work each day has been my lifesaver -- though, early on, I was sure it would just make things more stressful for me. (Another lunch to pack in the morning! No way!) But it's easy to throw leftovers, cut-up veggies and some low-cal dressing, tea bags (way better than the coffee at my office), and a small treat in a bag while I'm packing lunches and snacks for my kids. And I don't feel an urge to hit the junk-food-filled snack machines -- or even the chips-and-candy aisle at the supermarket -- at all, any more.

Buy an extra set of cones and collection bottles for your breast pump, so you can always have a clean set ready to go.