Monday is one of my most productive days after a little R&R on the weekend, some time to reflect, set my goals and plan my schedule for the week. I get up excited to tackle the week ahead! But as the week goes on, I can start to feel a little worn down. My enthusiasm can wane and I just want some peace and tranquility. These are signs that I need to give myself a little break. I know I feel great on Monday because I have given myself ME time on the weekend, so why not some ME time throughout the week?
Here are some ideas for ME time that can refresh and re-energize your enthusiasm. Some are simple and free while others will take a little planning and some cash:
Get up early
Get up a half hour before everyone else to exercise. Pilates and some free weights are my choice to get moving in the morning. It is a great way to stretch in the morning and I feel so much more energized as I start my day. If you don’t like exercise, check out my blog post: I hate working out.
Put yourself on your schedule
Schedule 10 to 20 minutes of quiet time for yourself somewhere in the day. See where you can fit this in. Maybe it is once the kids are out the door, or while your little ones are having a nap, or after you have tucked the kids into bed. This is where establishing and maintaining personal boundaries will serve you. Teach your children and significant other that you are not to be disturbed for any reason during this time. Use this time to meditate, read, reflect, journal, enjoy a cup of tea, take a hot bath, listen to your favourite music, or just flop down and breath…whatever feels good for you. This time will allow you to relax, gather your thoughts, dream, reflect, and breath – your whole week will go much better if you make this a daily habit.
Pamper yourself a little
Schedule a massage every few weeks. Book well in advance so you can fit it into your schedule and you have something to look forward to. Most places offer a variety of bookings – everything from 20 minutes to 90 minutes – choose what you need and what your wallet will tolerate. Check with your health insurance plan at work – you may have coverage for this. There are so many health benefits to massage and so many specific things your massage therapist can target. Your whole body will thank you for it.
Get social
Make time for social time with your friends. This will likely require some planning ahead and scheduling. Why not pop a meal in the crockpot, ready for your family to serve themselves at the regular dinner hour while you are out enjoying some time with a few friends? Then be home in time to tuck kids into bed. Want longer? Leave your spouse in charge for the evening…why not, right? This is a partnership and you need to give each other personal time and space. A good meal prep strategy is super helpful for allowing you more social time and quiet time. Check out this blog on Healthy Meal Prep!
Make it a date
Plan a date night. This will definitely require some planning. Hire a babysitter or trade off with friends who have kids – they take your kids for your date night and you take their kids for their date night. Spending quality time with your sweetheart is good for both of you and for your relationship.
Taking action…
What are you going to put in place right now to fit personal time into your routine?
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