Do you make yourself a priority in your own life? Do you know how to make time for yourself?
I was talking to a mom of five recently (surprisingly, there are a lot of them out there ) and our topic was finding time for yourself. She was struggling with it. I think we all do. But a while back, I figured out that making some time to take care of myself, resulted in an overall better life for my family. When I’m less stressed, they are less stressed 🙂
Here are some tips to help make you a priority:
First, decide that you deserve some time to yourself each day. Stop feeling guilty for taking time out for you, and realize in the long run, it’s a win-win for everyone.
Decide how best to spend “me” time. How each of us chooses to spend free time is as individualized as we all are. If you had an extra 15 minutes, a half hour, an afternoon or an entire day, what would you do to make yourself feel rejuvenated, relaxed and happy? Write a list and keep it handy when you begin scheduling time into your calendar.
Evaluate the things that are wasting your time each day. Do you check your emails constantly and end up spending more time on your computer than you planned? Do you answer personal calls in the middle of your workday? Run to the supermarket daily to pick up dinner rather than plan in advance and shop once? You must take some time to organize your responsibilities, and you will gain more free time than you can imagine.
Learn to say “no” to requests to do things that you don’t really want to, don’t value or don’t bring you satisfaction and joy.
Ask for help with chores that don’t necessarily have to be completed by you alone. (Type As – be willing to let some of it go!)
At the beginning of each week, schedule all that must be accomplished—including “me” time. Treat your personal time like you would any other appointment and make it non-negotiable.
Commit to a minimum of 30 minutes of “me” time every day. Do something (or nothing) that completely lets go of responsibilities and releases your mind, allowing you to be alone with your thoughts.
Create a daily ritual. This can be a workout, reading a book, or taking a walk. Make it something you can look forward to.