We tend to take care of others before we take care of ourselves. We are sisters, mothers, wives, daughters, workers, and feel the pressure every day. If we're burnt out, we simply cannot perform at our highest level.
Finding time for ourselves can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. Yet, carving out "me time" is crucial for maintaining our mental health and overall well-being. Here's how you can find "me time" even when it seems like "no time."
As women, in particular, with perpetual obligations such as; school plays, sports practices, Halloween costumes, play dates, family dinners, plans with the girls, demanding careers, the list goes on... How do we possibly squeeze in "me" time?
1. Prioritize Time
Start by taking a close look at your daily schedule. Identify tasks that are time-consuming yet non-essential or activities that can be delegated. It would help if you stopped anything that wastes your time so that you can free it up. Reassess time surfing the web, answering personal calls, or checking emails. Make yourself a priority. This means there will be times when you have to say "No" to some obligations.
∎ Schedule It
As you schedule a meeting or an appointment, prepare your "me time." Prioritizing this time encourages you to treat it as non-negotiable, ensuring you don't overlook your needs amidst daily tasks. Managing your time should be bright. There is only a limited number of hours in the day. Realize that you can't do it all. Streamlining your to-do list frees up pockets of time that can be used for self-care.
∎ Use Waiting Times
We often overlook periods throughout our day, such as waiting for a meeting to start or commuting. Use these pockets of time for quick self-care practices like deep breathing, listening to a favorite song, or simply enjoying a few moments of silence.
∎ Carve Out Time
Consider waking up a little earlier or staying up later to carve out some quiet, uninterrupted "me time." Whether you read, meditate, or enjoy tea, these moments can set a positive tone for the rest of your day or help you unwind.
2. Enjoy Activities
Taking time to do something you enjoy isn’t a luxury - it’s a must! Pick an activity that makes you feel good. Take that hour in the evening to attend a yoga class. Wake up those twenty minutes earlier to meditate. Squeeze in one chapter of that romance novel. Have the expensive chocolate you've been hiding from the kids. You deserve it!
The activity itself can be anything, but there are two rules. Number one: unplug completely. No cell phones, laptops, iPads, nothing used to communicate. Aside from music on your cell phone, no contact with the outside world. Rule number two: you MUST be alone. Being by yourself allows you to enjoy your own company. You get back in touch with your interests, likes, and dislikes. It reminds you of what makes you happy. This is how to decompress and remind yourself of who you are or want to be.
3. Pause, Rest, Unwind, and Release
Stop doing what you are doing. Learning to be “in the moment” is crucial to your happiness. Find ways to incorporate self-care into your daily tasks. This could be listening to a cooking podcast, practicing mindfulness while washing dishes, or turning your shower time into a mini spa session.
"Me time" doesn't always need to be lengthy or elaborate. Even a few minutes of focused self-care can help reset your mind, reduce stress, and boost your mood. Listen to music that enables you to relax. Music has a great way of switching our moods and thoughts. Get into yourself. Try a scented bubble bath with rose petals and candles. Taking a break allows you to relax and recharge. This will take the edge off and release the pent-up pressure from your daily responsibilities.
Final Thoughts
The key is to be intentional about this time and use it to do something that brings you joy and peace. Turning the phrase, "I have no time" into "I make time," you can nurture your well-being amidst even the busiest schedules. It is essential to your survival and sanity; and the best thing for you and your family. You will be able to discover a calmer version of yourself when you have that time to yourself.
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