One of the major responsibilities of my job is to publish an annual report on or before October 1 every year. If you’re keeping score (or if you have a countdown widget on your phone), I had 25 days left to publish as of today.

My desk, admittedly, is never 100% clear, but now? It is covered in stacks of important papers and holds my ever present XL coffee that keeps me going through my 14 hour days.

As much time as I spend at my desk, I should probably look into one that adjusts to standing. I’m sure I’m aging myself more quickly by sitting all day and when I’m chained to my desk, I know I’m not winning any Fitbit Step Challenges.

My diet is a train wreck at the moment. Too much sugar and caffeine to be healthy and meals are typically eaten either at my desk or standing in my kitchen before I go to bed. It’s like grad school all over again, except I’m no longer in my twenties and capable of recovering so easily from such nonsense.

How do people who have stressful seasons (even if those seasons are never-ending) keep on an even keel?

I imagine there are people whose jobs are extremely stressful and demanding who still find time to plan their meals, eat relatively regularly, and continue with some sort of workout plan. I have not been to the gym in weeks and although I successfully meal planned for family dinners last week. I have not managed to bring anything for breakfast or lunch in the past couple weeks.

If I had a friend treating her body this way, I would have a Come to Jesus moment immediately. As it is, I trudge from one day to the next just hoping there are enough hours between me and my deadline that I can successfully finish.

I’m trying to keep my home in order, stay current with the needs and activities of my children, see my husband once in awhile, maintain a household budget, and pay down our debt. Oh, and comply with a gigantic federal law, answer an onslaught of records requests, and take on additional responsibilities at my work. But, you know…no big whoop.

And, I know I’m not alone. And, it isn’t like I don’t love my job, the people I work with, and my life in general.

I simply cannot figure out why, when the chips are down, my personal needs are what I sacrifice first? Anyone else? Anyone solve that little issue? Would love to hear how!