“Me time” could be referred to as a period when you allow yourself to sit with your own company. You remove your focus and mind from the daily demands and distractions and allow yourself to slow down. It is your time to think or focus on self-care, relaxation and personal activities that bring you joy and satisfaction.
My time is important for several reasons. It provides a break from the pressures and responsibilities of everyday life, allowing for relaxation and a sense of calm. Spending some time alone with your thoughts can help develop a deeper understanding of situations and yourself.
What counts as Me Time?
“Me time” is an intentional effort of self-care and self-reflection. For many, the concept of “me time” can sound like a lot or a little extra, taking time and sitting with your own thoughts when you could be completing a task, cooking or working more. But if you look at it as a source of self-nurture, you’ll realize that 30 minutes of “me time” can help you regain your lost balance as you constantly delve into your busy life.
Anything that gives you a sense of relief could count as “me time.” Even watching a documentary, reading a book or anything you really enjoy doing is “ME TIME”. It is not selfish, it is self-preserving to focus and work on your own needs first, only then will you be able to meet other expectations in a more satisfying way.
The importance of my time
We often juggle work, family and social obligations, leaving little time for ourselves. Taking much needed time for self-care and looking after our own well-being is essential to maintaining a healthy and balanced life. This is where the concept of “I” time comes into play. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of taking time for ourselves and provide five practical ways to find that much-needed “me” time.
5 ways to find me time
When we’re constantly running on permission, our productivity and creativity suffer. Me time gives us the mental space to recharge our minds, gain clarity and stimulate new ideas. A break from the hustle and bustle can really boost our productivity when we get back to our daily tasks.
Chronic stress can negatively affect our mental and physical health. Engaging in activities we enjoy during ‘me’ time helps reduce stress levels and promote a sense of calm and relaxation. It’s a time when we can prioritize self-care practices that help improve mental health and emotional well-being.
1) Schedule it – Treat “me time” as an important appointment with yourself. Set aside specific times in your calendar dedicated exclusively to activities you enjoy. Treat these appointments with the same importance you would any other commitment.
2) Wake up early or go to bed later: Carving out time early in the morning or late at night can be an effective way to find “me time.” Use this quiet time to engage in activities that bring you joy, such as reading, journaling, meditating, or taking up a hobby.
3) Delegate and compartmentalize: It’s important to recognize that you don’t have to do everything yourself. Delegate tasks to others when possible, whether at work or at home. Consider breaking down responsibilities into small portions and prioritizing one box at a time, freeing up more time for yourself.
4) Set boundaries: Establish healthy boundaries at work and with others, it’s okay to say no to certain commitments or obligations to make room for “me time.” Prioritize your own well-being and don’t feel guilty about taking time for yourself.
5) Multitask Mindfully: I used to exhaust myself with this, while multitasking can be tempting, it often leaves us feeling scattered and overwhelmed. Instead, try to focus on one task at a time and give it your full attention. This allows you to complete tasks more efficiently, leaving room for quality “me time”.
It is easy to neglect our own needs in order to fulfill various responsibilities. However, making “me time” a priority is vital to our overall well-being. By consciously making time for ourselves, we will actually be doing our overall well-being a favor.
