Life moves fast. Between work, family, friends, and endless responsibilities, finding time for yourself can feel almost impossible. If you’re constantly putting yourself last on your list, you’re not alone. But here’s a truth you need to hear: Making time for yourself isn’t selfish; it’s necessary.
Why You Need Time for Yourself
When you hear the phrase “make time for yourself,” you might picture lounging around doing nothing. And while there’s definitely value in lounging around sometimes, personal time is about more than relaxation. It’s about reconnecting with who you are, outside of your roles at work, home, or anywhere else.
Taking regular breaks for yourself helps reduce stress, boosts your mental health, and gives you clarity. When you’re burned out, you’re not helping anyone—not your family, not your friends, and certainly not your career. Think of your energy like a battery; if you don’t recharge regularly, eventually, you’ll stop working altogether.
How to Actually Make Time for Yourself
Here are some practical steps you can take, starting right now, to reclaim your personal time:
One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting for “free time” to magically appear. Spoiler alert—it won’t. Just like you’d schedule a doctor’s appointment, schedule your alone time. Block it out in your calendar like it’s an important meeting (because it is!). Whether it’s 15 minutes to drink your coffee in peace or an hour to read or exercise, having it scheduled will make it more likely to happen.
Set Boundaries and Stick to Them
You must learn to say “no” sometimes, even if it feels awkward or uncomfortable at first. Friends, family, and work often mean well, but they’ll naturally take as much time as you’re willing to give. Politely but firmly saying, “I can’t do that right now,” or, “I’m unavailable at that time,” creates a healthy boundary that protects your mental and emotional health.
Disconnect from Digital Distractions
One of the biggest reasons people feel like they have no time is because of constant digital distractions. Social media, emails, and notifications can eat up your entire day if you’re not careful. Set aside specific times of the day to check your phone or social media. When you’re having “you time,” put your phone on airplane mode or at least silence notifications. Your social media feed can wait, but your sanity cannot.
Do Something You Actually Enjoy
This might sound obvious, but making time for yourself should involve activities you genuinely love. Whether that’s gardening, painting, running, or just binge-watching your favorite series, do something that makes you happy. Engaging in activities you love will rejuvenate your spirit and help you disconnect from the stressors of daily life.
Create Daily Rituals
A simple way to ensure you’re getting “me” time is by creating daily rituals. These rituals can be quick but meaningful. It could be waking up 10 minutes early to journal, meditating before bed, or enjoying a quiet walk in nature. Daily rituals anchor your day, giving you something calm and predictable to look forward to, even on busy days.
Prioritize Rest and Sleep
Never underestimate the power of good sleep and proper rest. Making time for yourself includes making sure you’re well-rested. Getting enough sleep is one of the most impactful forms of self-care. When you’re rested, everything else feels more manageable, from work stress to personal relationships.
Learn to Let Go of Guilt
Guilt often stops people from making time for themselves. They worry they’re neglecting their responsibilities or being selfish. But remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself allows you to better care for others. It’s not just okay to prioritize yourself; it’s essential.
Make Your Environment Relaxing
Sometimes, making time for yourself can be as simple as creating a calming space in your home. Whether it’s your bedroom, a small corner of your living room, or even your patio, having a dedicated relaxation spot encourages you to take breaks more often. Fill your space with things that make you feel peaceful—candles, comfy pillows, books, or music.
Learn to Delegate
Often, you feel overwhelmed because you’re taking on too much. Learning to delegate tasks at work and home can free up time for yourself. Ask for help, share responsibilities, and don’t try to be superhuman. Delegating doesn’t mean you’re weak or incapable; it means you’re wise enough to recognize your limits.
Enjoy the Little Things
Making time for yourself doesn’t always mean extravagant vacations or spa days. Sometimes, it means savoring the small moments—your morning coffee, a walk around the block, or enjoying your favorite meal uninterrupted. Paying attention to these simple pleasures can dramatically boost your overall mood and satisfaction with life.
Start Small, Then Build
You don’t have to radically change your life overnight. Start with small, manageable moments of self-care and build from there. Even five minutes of intentional quiet time can significantly impact your mood and mindset. Gradually increasing this time as you become more comfortable will make it easier to maintain.
You Deserve It
If there’s one thing you should take away from this, it’s that you deserve personal time as much as anyone else deserves your attention. Your well-being is worth investing in. So, give yourself permission to prioritize your happiness without guilt.
Making time for yourself might not always feel easy, but it’s always worth it. Start small, stay consistent, and remember: the most important investment you can ever make is in yourself.