“Me time” could be referred to as a period when you allow yourself to sit with your own company. You take away your focus and your mind from the daily demands and distractions and allow yourself to slow down. It is your time to reflect or to focus on self-care, relaxation, and personal activities that bring you joy and satisfaction.
Me time is important for several reasons; It provides a break from the pressures and responsibilities of daily life, allowing for relaxation and a sense of calm. Spending some time alone with your thoughts can help in developing a deeper understanding of situations and self.
What counts as Me Time?
“Me time” is an intentional attempt at self-care and self-reflection. For many the concept of “me time” might sound like too much or a bit extra, taking out time and sitting with your own thoughts, when you can finish a task, cook or work more. But if you look at it as a source of self-nurturing, you will realise that 30 minutes of “me time” can help you reclaim your lost balance while you constantly delve into your busy life.
Anything that provides you with a sense of relief could count as “me time”. Even watching a documentary, reading a book or anything you particularly ENJOY doing is your “ME TIME”. It is not selfish, it is self-preserving to focus and work on your needs first, only then you will be able to meet other expectations in a more fulfilling manner.
The Importance of Me Time
We often juggle work, family, and social obligations, leaving little time for ourselves. Taking the much-needed time for self-care and nurturing our own well-being is essential for maintaining a healthy and balanced life. This is where the concept of “me” time comes into play. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of carving out dedicated time for ourselves and provide five practical ways to find that much-needed “me” time.
5 Ways to Find Me Time
When we are constantly running on empty, our productivity and creativity suffer. “Me” time gives us the mental space to recharge our minds, gain clarity, and stimulate new ideas. Taking a break from the hustle and bustle can actually enhance our productivity when we return to our daily tasks.
Chronic stress can take a toll on our mental and physical health. Engaging in activities we enjoy during “me” time helps to reduce stress levels and promote a sense of calm and relaxation. It’s a time when we can prioritise self-care practices that contribute to improved mental health and emotional well-being.
1) Schedule it – Treat “me time” as an important appointment with yourself. Set aside specific blocks of time in your calendar dedicated solely to activities you enjoy. Treat these appointments with the same level of importance you would give to any other commitment.
2) Wake up early or go to bed later: Carving out time in the early morning or late evening 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 practising a hobby.
3) Delegate and compartmentalise: It’s important to recognise that you don’t have to do everything yourself. Delegate tasks to others when possible, whether it’s at work or home. Consider compartmentalising responsibilities into small portions and prioritising 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 decline certain commitments or obligations to create space for “me time”. Prioritise your own well-being and don’t feel guilty for taking time for yourself.
5) Multi-task 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’s easy to neglect our own needs in favour of fulfilling various responsibilities. However, making “me time” a priority is vital for our overall well-being. By consciously setting aside time for ourselves we will actually do a favour to our overall well-being.
