How to Make Time for Self-Care

It can be hard to find time for self-care, especially if you work a full-time job and have other family commitments to deal with. But, it is crucially important that you find a way to make some time for you. Self-care is important for both your physical and mental health. So, here are some ways you can make time for self-care, even if you are very busy.

Get up earlier

Recall the old quote of “early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.” One great way of making more time for self-care is to get up earlier. I know, a few extra hours of sleep sounds too good to pass up; but, once you get used to waking up early, you will be glad you did. Waking up early allows you to sit down and read for a few hours, make a healthy breakfast, get in a good morning workout, or do a variety of other self-care activities. Of course, this does mean making sure you go to bed early enough each night to get enough rest!

Set a schedule and stick to it

One of the biggest reasons people feel like they don’t have time is that they don’t bother budgeting the time they have. If you make a detailed plan, then you will find that you can squeeze in some self-care, even at the busiest times. It’s all about priorities.

For example, look through your calendar and find your next day off – literally write some self-care activities into your calendar. This will stop you from being tempted to let work or chores run into your personal “me time”.

Get Rid of distractions

It can be tempting to just zone out and start watching television or browsing Facebook – this can be relaxing for short times, but if you do it too much it’s not going to do you much good. Instead, use this time on something that nurtures your mind instead. Give yourself a goal before you turn on the television. For example, you could pledge to yourself that you’ll do 10 minutes of meditation before your favorite show starts each day.

Focus on the little things

It can be difficult to make time for things like full-blown workout sessions, but it is much easier to make time for a small 15-minute walk or jog. If you are struggling to make time for self-care, try setting aside time for very small self-care activities. Instead of reading a book, try just reading a chapter. Instead of exercising for an hour, try and find time for a quick 10 to 15-minute workout session.