It’s always important to have some alone time, at least that’s what I have discovered in the last 2 years. But making yourself the top priority is hard when you have a lot of things to do whether it’s family, work or school obligations. You need to always remember taking care of yourself is a crucial part of living a full life.
Some of the tips you could adopt include:
1. Schedule It
We always make schedules for every activity in our life apart from spending time with ourselves. So why not put it on your calendar and hold yourself accountable for giving yourself some alone time.
2. Make It Count
As much as you need me-time it needs to be accounted for. So commit to spending the time to pamper yourself. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to pamper yourself as long as its time spent with yourself.
3. Take 5
Find something to recharge for the rest of the day. It can be 5 minutes breathing deeply, going for a walk outside or just sitting quietly by yourself.
4. Say No, Gracefully
As much as it is always good to help out family and friends, it’s ok to say no gracefully to them if they are interrupting your me-time. Tell them that you are happy to help though after some time.
5. Get Up Earlier
You have probably heard this suggestion before. This time, actually give it a try! Try it for a week straight, and then decide if it is for you. Set your alarm for 30 minutes before you would normally wake up. Use that time to be quiet, write in a journal, read a book or take a 30-minute run or engage in any activity that restores you.
6. Use Your Shower Time
I know this sounds ridiculous but it works really well for me especially when I feel like am suffocating. Taking a shower may be your only naturally built in alone-time during the day. Take advantage of it! How about treating your shower moment like a spa getaway. Take some deep breaths and let the warm water wash away any tension that you were having.
7. Maximize Your Commute
Most of us spend a lot of time in traffic especially in Nairobi as we head to work or back home. How about instead of listening to music or reading a book, use that time to enjoy a brief period of quiet time. Think about your life, pray and you might get a different perspective.
8. Remember Why It Is Important
Taking care of yourself can leave you feeling guilty; you aren’t spending time with your family or doing work. Keep in mind that carving out time for yourself is vital for keeping yourself healthy, and that means a happier family and more productive work and school life.
9. Take Yourself Out
Take yourself out once a month and learn to appreciate the wins you have had so far. With this, you get to write down goals that you ought to achieve in the next month. When doing this be true yourself and you will notice how much difference you will see in your life.