Do you recognize this? Always busy for others. The kids, the household, the hubby, the sports club, a family member, and let’s not forget the boss at work… In the balance between work and life, we often overlook the most important part of this balance: YOU.
Within each of us is a source of energy that needs to be replenished regularly. When we pretend this pit is bottomless and plan a long list of activities that fit like puzzle pieces into every minute of the day, this resource becomes exhausted, and we feel tired, weak and disconnected from our lives.
We can replenish the resource by finding time for OURSELVES. Time in which we can focus on what we oursélves need. Self-time isn’t selfish, it’s actually the opposite of selfishness. Fulfilling our own physical, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual needs will in all cases lead to more quality and connection in and with our outside world.
This is important, we all know that. However, it is hard to find space for it in our active, multifaceted lives. And when you do take the time and space for it, you notice that your thoughts and patterns continuously wander into the ‘daily affairs’.
To ensure that “me-time” really remains time for you, keep these points in mind:
1. An important condition for “real time for yourself” is that you give yourself enough time so that you don’t feel rushed. For example, if you planned 2 hours on Friday morning, you add an extra hour before and an hour after it.
2. Consider in advance how you want to spend the time and forget your obligations for that moment.
3. Try new things. Discover what stimulates and supports you in replenishing your energy source. For example, creative pursuits, guided meditation, relaxing activities in which your mind can wander, or forms of expression such as writing or painting.
Self-time prepares you for the next round of everyday life, whether it’s a professional project or tackling odd jobs around the house. “Me-time” also offers a unique opportunity to learn about yourself, about your needs and your natural limits.
While taking time for yourself may seem unimportant at times, it is crucial for your well-being and that of those around you as it ensures that you never run out of energy. As with the gas masks on the plane, it is very important that, in addition to taking care of our environment, we continue to meet our own needs.
I wish you a lot of “me time”.
Love, Sandra
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