We’ve been in the midst of a heat wave, and high temperatures have long been a serious problem for me and my health.
I had four deadlines to meet on Monday. I got one out of the way Sunday evening. The second I met Monday morning, and I got about half-way through the third one (I got the really important bits done, and the rest will be completed this week).
But the fourth? I had to let that one go.
It wasn’t technically a “deadline”?I was part of last night’s anniversary line-up at the Authors in Pubs event, and those appearances do take a fair amount of preparation (for me, anyway). But I hit a wall around 2 p.m. on Monday and knew I wasn’t in any kind of shape to make a public appearance.
I felt terrible bowing out at that last-minute, even though I was sick and had no choice. But the organizer completely understood. Other authors got in touch to check in with me and offer their sympathies.
I grew up pushing myself even when it was inappropriate to do so. I didn’t know about dysautonomia then. Even though I was obviously sick, it got ingrained in me instead that I was just lazy. I still battle with that knee-jerk attitude today.
But yesterday I took care of myself (I even sat?literally?on a bag of ice for most of the evening), although it meant disappointing other people. And the world didn’t end.
Creative Commons photo: Culigan Keeps Europe Cool by heraldpost.