As women, we are always putting others first.
We are mothers, daughters, wives, girlfriends, employees, bosses, friends, and more. We wear so many hats and juggle so many responsibilities that it’s easy to forget about taking care of ourselves. We also all know the importance of taking care of our physical health. We need to exercise, eat right, and get enough sleep. But what about our mental health? Just as our bodies need time to heal and rejuvenate, so do our minds. That’s where “me” time comes in.
What is “me” time? It’s simply taking some time out for yourself to relax and recharge. It can be anything that brings you joy and helps you relax. Maybe it’s reading a book, taking a bubble bath, going for a walk, or listening to your favorite music. Whatever it is, make sure it’s something that you enjoy and that allows you to completely unplug from the rest of the world.
Why is “me” time important? Because when we’re constantly on the go, we never give ourselves a chance to just be. We’re always working, running errands, taking care of others…the list goes on and on. And while there’s nothing wrong with being busy, we need to make sure that we’re taking care of ourselves too. Otherwise, we’ll end up burned out and resentful.
So how do you make time for “me” time? Keep reading to find out!
1. Set boundaries
If you have trouble saying no or tend to put everyone else’s needs before your own, then it’s time to start setting some boundaries. Learn to say no when someone asks you for favors that you don’t really have time for. And don’t be afraid to put your foot down if someone is infringing on your “me” time! Your friends and family will understand if you need some alone time every now and then.
2. Set Aside Time Each Day
One way to make sure you are taking some time each day for yourself is to set aside a specific block of time that will be just for you. This can be first thing in the morning before anyone else is awake, during your lunch break at work, or after the kids are in bed at night. Choose a time that you can consistently stick to and that will work with your schedule. Then, use that time to do something that brings you joy or relaxes you. Maybe you want to read a book, take a bath, go for a walk, or meditate. Whatever it is that you choose to do, make sure it is something that you can look forward to and that will help you recharge your batteries.
3. Keep a Running List of Things You Want to Do
Another way to make sure you are making time for “me time” is to keep a running list of things you want to do for yourself. Whenever you think of something you would like to do or try, add it to the list. That way, when you finally have some free time, you can refer back to the list and choose something that sounds fun or interesting. The possibilities are endless! Maybe you want to learn a new skill, like knitting or cooking; maybe you want visit a new city or country; maybe you want to try a new sport or hobby; maybe you just want some peace and quiet! Whatever it is, make sure it is something that YOU want to do—not something that someone else wants you to do or that you feel like you should do.
4. Schedule It In
If setting aside time each day or keeping a running list of things you want doesn’t work for you, try scheduling “me time” into your calendar like any other appointment. This can be once a week, once every two weeks, or once a month—whatever works best for your schedule and your needs. Again, make sure this is some dedicated time that you can use however YOU want without interruption from family, friends, or work obligations.
Making “me time” a priority might seem selfish at first glance but it’s actually one of the most selfless things we can do—not just for ourselves but also for those around us. When we take care of ourselves physically and mentally, we are better able to take care of others.
It gives us a chance to relax and recharge so that we can keep going strong. So if you haven’t been making time for “me” time, now is the perfect time to start!
Just follow the tips above and soon enough, relaxing will become a regular part of your routine.