The importance of 'Me Time'
Updated | By Jane Linley-Thomas
Finding time for yourself is essential to your happiness, especially in a world where we are running toward our goals each and every day.
For me, making creating 'Me Time' is a big thing. It doesn't matter what I do in that time, but I usually like to get one with nature and walk.
Read: #JanesWorld: Coping with being overwhelmed or stressed
As you know, I'm a wife and mother of three, so my days do get busy. In an effort to make life as comfortable for my little ones as possible, there was a time where I forgot to make time for myself.
The other day I went on my usual morning stroll and I had my ah-ha moment (cue Oprah voice)! My thought went something like this, "make moments, stand barefoot in the sand, pack a healthy lunch as you do for others so that you don't hit a low and grab the comfort carb..."
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My heart was warmed by your responses:
- venput20: "You can't pour from an empty cup, take care of yourself first."
- l_a_r_l_a_r: "Phew needed that. Big love beautiful woman."
- nadine_sing: "So true..sometimes I look in the mirror and say to myself "hey, that's new, that wasn't there before...how long has that been there?! Did anyone else notice??? " so living in track pants is all I do, and my husband hates it lol change is terrifying, but it has to be done. Thank you JLT. 😊"
The reality is, if you do not take care of you, you can't take care of others.
Read: Three foods that can help you fight stress
Here are some tips to make yourself a priority with 'Me Time':
- Treat your relationships as investments. Do a personal audit and make sure you give the most time to those you care about.
- Saying 'no': If you're starting to run on empty, then don't be tempted to take on more. You are no use to anyone if you're exhausted and mentally drained. Learn to say "no" instead of cramming more into your day than you can.
- Schedule 'Me Time'. Remember to turn off your phone and don't be tempted to reschedule if something comes up. You are the most important person you should be looking after during this time.
- Stimulate your senses. Whether it's the taste of a good cup of coffee, the feel of grass beneath your feet or maybe just listening to music on the commute, just do it!
- Getting lost in the present. Basically, live in the present moment, enjoy where you are and don't think about the future. It's hard at first but with some time, you will get a handle on it.
What is the one thing you enjoy doing with your 'Me Time'?
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