2. Take time for yourself

How often to you take time for yourself?

It doesn’t happen very often for me.

In between being mum-to-two, wife, in-class aide, volunteer teaching, on committees and being an Independent Creative Professional, my ‘spare’ time is very limited….  In fact, I don’t think it exists.

Which would be a small white lie.

It doesn’t exist because I don’t make the time for it to exist.

I am the only one who can make the decision to take the time for myself.  Time away from my family, my home and my business.

How could I do it?

~Meet a friend for coffee.

Although (technically) you won’t be alone, you also won’t be tempted to do the chores that are waiting to be completed (or started).

~Take a walk.

Plug in your favourite music and walk around the block.  You will feel better for the fresh air and sunshine, and you’ll have done some exercise as well.

~Plan an activity for after the kids are in bed.

This is something I’ve taken to doing.  I settle myself on the couch, with my sketch pad and fine-point pens and I “Zentangle Doodle”.  Your mind wanders, your body relaxes and before you know it 30 minutes has passed.  I highly recommend giving it a try.

~Block out time in your work diary.

This one I find difficult, especially when it comes to my business.  The other week I took a Personal Day.  Went and saw a movie, had lunch and wandered the shops – All. By. Myself.  I felt so much better for having taken the day.  I came home refreshed and feeling ready to get back to work.  Fresh mind and spirit.

How will you take time for yourself?

Or do you do it already? If you do, please share your favourite “me-time” activity.  You may well be the inspiration someone needs to some much needed alone time…

Tip 1 – Do you have the courage to be imperfect?

Tip number 3 will be posted on Saturday…