It’s time to accept the honest truth. You deserve “ME TIME!”. Read on to learn why you need it and what to do with it.
Let’s be honest, most of us don’t get enough “me time.” From busy work schedules to keeping up with the kids, there’s barely a second in the day when things slow down. However, some women feel guilty about shutting off their work devices and taking time away from the kids –  it’s a normal, natural feeling.
But studies have shown that alone time is beneficial to your health. According to Elite Daily, alone time helps you clear your mind, relieve anxiety, learn about yourself, be more efficient and be happy with yourself. So, the next time an opportunity comes along to sit back and relax, jump on it!
Find Me Time
There’s only 24 hours in a day, and most days it feels like we could use more. Which leaves you thinking, how can you possibly find time for solitude? It’s simple. Wake up 30 minutes to an hour before anyone in your house. Use this time to do whatever makes you happy, whether it be reading a book and sipping coffee or a morning meditation session. Closing your door is another simple solution. At home or at work, this strategy can help you get more done and have some peace and quiet.
Want more time alone? Schedule a day just for solitude. Get the kids a sitter, tell your husband you’re busy and take the day off from work. You’d be surprised how refreshed you feel afterwards.
Decide how to Spend Your Day of Solitude
Now that you have a day all to yourself, you’re thinking, how am I going to spend it? Like the simple solutions mentioned above, do something that makes you happy. If you’re passionate about the arts, attend a Broadway show. Love the outdoors? Take a hike, run or cycle on a local trail. Afterwards, browse the local farmers market to pick up some fresh fruits and veggies and put together a homemade lunch. For the ultimate me time, make a reservation at the spa. Spa Finder makes booking a massage or mani-pedi easy. Even spending a day shopping counts as me time.
Don’t Feel Guilty
Your day of solitude won’t be enjoyable if you’re feeling guilty about spending time away from work or the kids. It’s normal to feel the need to take care of everyone else; however, psychologist Sherrie Bourg Carter says taking time for yourself is something you should never feel guilty about. Carter says taking me time models healthy behavior for your loved ones in addition to keeping you strong, happy and healthy.
Another problem that may arise is resistance. If your coworkers or your family are accustomed to always having you available, you might encounter resistance from them. Carter suggests reassuring these people that you’re still there for them and for you to be at your best in the future, you need to take some time to take care of yourself. Eventually, they will get used to it, and you’ll be better for it.
Identity Magazine is all about empowering women to get all A’s in the game of life — Accept. Appreciate. Achieve.TM Every contributor and expert answer the Identity 5 questions in keeping with our theme. Their answers can be random and in the moment or they can be aligned with the above article. As a team, we hope to inspire and motivate ourselves and inspire you to get all A’s.
1. What have you accepted within your life, physically and/or mentally? What are you still working on accepting?
That we have to all appreciate the little things and to not take anything for granted.
2. What have you learn to appreciate about yourself and/or within your life, physically and mentally? What are you still working on to appreciate?
I’m blessed to have loving family and friends in my life.
3. What is one of your most rewarding achievements in life? What makes YOU most proud? What goals and dreams do you still have?
Graduating from Arizona State University in 2013. Maybe one day I’ll even write a book about it. One day…
4. We all have imperfections, so we think. The truth–we are all perfectly imperfect. What are your not-so-perfect ways? What imperfections and quirks create who you are–your Identity?
Nobody’s perfect and it’s been hard to accept it. I’ve learned to embrace my curly hair, my curves and my quirky personality.
5. “I Love My…” is an outlet for you to express and appreciate all the positive traits that make you…well… YOU! Sharing what you love about yourself will make you smile, feel empowered, and uplift your spirit and soul. (we assure you!) Identity challenges you to complete the phrase “I Love My…?”
Dog! My five-year-old Jack Russell Terrier is my everything.
