How many of you get so consumed with work, family and responsibilities that you forget to take care of yourself in the process? How many of you feel like you need to give to others before you give to yourself? Do you feel a twinge of guilt if you take some much needed “me time”? People are taking on more responsibilities and overcommitting themselves at the expense of their health and well-being. It is crucial to fill up your ever depleting ‘tank’ before it runs dry and you have nothing left to give. Why not make a commitment this year to take care of yourself. By nurturing your body and spirit you are able to give more of yourself to those you care about. You are no help to others when you are sick and worn down from lack of self care. I am not asking you to take week long vacations, merely plug in some “me time” to your daily routine. You will feel more energized and less stressed.
1. Simplify
Before you can plug in some time for yourself in an already hectic schedule, you need to make some room. What responsibilities or tasks can you let go of or delegate to someone else? Just remember you can’t do it all and be everything for everyone. It is ok to prioritize what really matters to you.
2. Make a list
Create a list of things you would enjoy doing more of. What would bring you some peace and rejuvenation? Have fun with this list. If this is a difficult task, then you definitely need to plug some of this crucial time into your life. There is no right or wrong list, create a list of things that would put a smile on your face.
3. 5 things a day
Make a commitment to have 5 things a day scheduled that you can look forward to. You need to have activities to “fill you up” amidst all the chaos. For ex. take a hot bath, drink a cup of tea, call a friend, take a brisk walk. This doesn’t need to be a huge time commitment, even the simplest tasks will be extremely rewarding.
