Challenge: Not knowing when to take time off to rest and recharge. Giving yourself permission to take time to nurture your needs. 

I say it all the time, “You can’t give of yourself when your own well is dry.” –Julie

Too often we make time for a multitude of things (work, kids, spouses, errands) and, in the process, leave out taking care of ourselves.  However, you can only do your best if you are healthy so you must make time to care for your needs.  

Whether your reason for leaving yourself out has to do with guilt or feeling like you are too busy, it is important to listen to your body to know if you are giving yourself enough time.  It is also improtant to remember that taking time for yourself is not selfish.  It is necessiary to take care of your needs in order to rejuvinate, rest, and feel your best.  Everyone is different so you must learn to listen to your body.  Ask yourself regulary, “How am I feeling?”  The answer to this question will let you know if you need a breather. 

The time you take for yourself can range from a five minute break each day for you to meditate (read, drink some tea, go for a walk) to a week vacation in the Bahamas.  Some also choose massages or time out with friends.  The point is, if you are listening to your body, you will find the balance you need.  If you are having trouble taking time for yourself, start by scheduling appointments with yourself throughout the week.    Too often it is easier to cancel appointments for ourselves then it is to cancel on others, putting a commitment in writing will help you keep it.  By putting yourself in your dayplanner, you will make certain to schedule other appointments around your “Me Time.”

A step further would be to involve your family and friends.  Making them aware of when your “Me Time” happens, will allow them the opportunity to respect it. You probably do this now and don’t even realize it.  For instance, many people make time for church on Sundays.  Their friends know they will be unavailable at that time.  Others go to the gym every day at a certain time and thier family and friends understand they will be unreachable. It is up to you to protect your time, others can only respect it if you do.