Breaking News…You can give yourself permission!

Yes, that’s right – you can give yourself permission to take care of yourself. To slow down. To take a break.

It’s a news flash for some. We often go through our days thinking that we always have to be on the move. That productivity rules. That we are somehow letting someone, even ourselves, down if we aren’t doing something and doing it perfectly.

But, taking a break and treating yourself well is something. It’s time that you use to recharge, relax, and get your mind off of whatever is bothering or distracting you. Being kind to yourself means something different to everyone – there is no “one size fits all” – and it may very well be one of the most important and fulfilling things you do all day.

“Me Time”

There is a key step to start with, though, that is challenging for many – giving yourself the all-important permission. It could be something as simple as deciding not to do the dishes after dinner one night and catching up the next day. Or asking your partner to do homework with kids while you read or meditate for 15 minutes. Or taking a break from work to walk outside and get refreshed. Even if it takes baby steps to get there, making small strides towards more “me time” can pay off big time in terms of better stress management and overall well-being.

Think about it…if a friend were stressed, frazzled, and exhausted, you likely wouldn’t say, “Just keep going, and whatever you do, don’t take a break for yourself”. So why do we often say that to ourselves?

Finding the Time vs. Making the Time

One of the most common things we hear is people saying, “I just can’t find the time to take a break.” Another news flash for you – you will never just find the time for anything. If you want time, you have to make time. Set aside some precious minutes wherever you can. Maybe get up 15 minutes earlier in the morning. And look at how you are really spending your time – could the half hour you spend mindlessly surfing the web be better used for a relaxing bubble bath or some energizing yoga?

If you want some other ideas, check out our Facebook page for great mental health tips.

We promise you…it’s OK, and important, to do things for yourself.