How often have you considered doing something you’d like to do but realized you don’t have time for it? How often does a week pass by and you did not have a minute to yourself? Not even a minute to do anything you might want to do just for yourself. It’s a typical scenario these days. 

The problem is that not making time for you can lead to chronic stress and depression. While you may be busy, and your to-do lists are probably overwhelming, you must make yourself a priority. 

Kids, work from home, chores, stress, bills to pay, cooking, cleaning and everything else we have to do is a lot. But, without self-care, we will burnout quickly and then what happens to all those responsibilities? When you neglect your own needs and mental health, everything in your life suffers. 

Meetings, deadlines, chores and appointments are all crammed onto your calendar. But, more likely than not, there isn’t a single mention about time for yourself in there. Everyone needs personal time. Time to unwind. Time to breathe. Time to have fun and experience joy. Time to explore hobbies and interests. 

Finding time to focus on self-care may be challenging, especially when job and family life are demanding but this is something we must do, even if it is only 30 minutes here and there. So time is now for you to start creating a new habit of taking time out for yourself.

Here are my FIVE ways to create a new habit of taking time out for YOU!

Prioritise

Prioritise, first and foremost. A well-organised plan will put your mind at ease and lead to a more productive week. Scheduling time ahead may be an excellent method to guarantee you don’t scrimp on that all-important self-care time. You can also see where you can squeeze it in (which can help ensure you take it). In any case, prioritise what’s vital and learn to say no or delegate, as discussed further below.

Say No (It’s All Right, I Promise)

It is quite acceptable to say no. Your time is very valuable, and it should be spent on activities that provide meaning to your life. It’s okay if you don’t want to go to that lunch with your friends. It’s what you really need is some alone time. It’s also okay if a friend has requested you help them with their move or something else, if it will have a negative impact on you, you can say no. Don’t feel guilty or dwell on when you say ‘No’ stand strong you know you need this time out for yourself. Or you can simply say I would love to help you out I just need this day to myself however I can help you tomorrow make a time that you can help. Just remember the day you are taking time out.

Switch It Off

Take a break from your phone and computer. How many times do you get an afternoon to yourself, then only to waste it replying to e-mails or reading Instagram? I’ve been there I have had to stop it. Instead I leave my phone in a place where I am not looking at it all the time. Sure, Social media has its advantages, however it can also entice us to spend an hour looking at useless memes. Limiting distractions is the first step in finding time for yourself. 

Timely Departure From Work Even if You Work From Home

When you need some alone time, this is one of the easiest things you can do. Many of us remain late at work. If this is the case for you, make it a point to leave work on time or if at all possible, a little early at least once a week, if not more often. Then take advantage of that time by engaging in your favourite pastime, getting a massage, meditating, spending time with a friend you don’t see very often or doing anything that helps you relax. If you work from home make a time that you start work for example start at 9am instead of first thing in the morning. No going in checking your emails first thing wait till its 9am then start work. This way it gives you time to enjoy the morning. So set a time to start work and finish.

Learn To Delegate

Are there responsibilities that you have at home or at work that could be delegated to assistants, family members, or others? Some possible ways to delegate include: Allowing someone else to take over a task can bring added benefits. They may find that they’re better at it than they thought they would be (or than you thought they would be). They may also enjoy the feeling of helping out. At the very least, it could bring a sense of teamwork.

New Habits

Start creating the above habits into your life now don’t wait till tomorrow or next week. You know you want time out start getting into the habit now. Get your diary out and find a day in the week and stick to it. You can also do a whole weekend. Its very important to take this time out so you are unwinding and giving your mind a rest. While not spoil yourself with a massage or some pampering. Even if it’s a get away weekend for yourself. Having time out for yourself is good for you. I always make sure I take time out for myself every week. My day is usually Wednesday if its not a Wednesday I do Friday. You can do this I believe in you xx

PS: I would love to hear your thoughts on this topic all you need to do is scroll down fill out the details. I look forward to your comment.