“Me time” is one of those phrases we hear all the time, yet so many of us struggle to actually embrace it. At its core, it simply means carving out moments that are just for you—moments that nourish your well‑being, calm your mind, and help you reconnect with who you are beneath all the noise. It doesn’t need to be extravagant. It can be as simple as reading a chapter of a book, wandering through your neighbourhood, or losing yourself in a favourite hobby.
And the funny thing is, it’s often the simplest moments that bring the most clarity. When you give yourself space to breathe, your thoughts settle, and suddenly everything feels a little lighter.
We all know we should be making time for ourselves. We say it, we believe it, we encourage others to do it. But actually putting it into practice? That’s where it gets tricky. Life is fast, demanding, and full of people who need us. It’s so easy to put ourselves at the bottom of the list of others’.
For years, I thought taking time for myself was selfish. There was always something more important to do, someone else to help, somewhere else to be. But after taking a short break from work due to stress, I finally realised something important: stepping away—even briefly—helps me reset, refocus, and return to the day with a clearer head. I’ve stopped trying to be the person who says “yes” to everything and everyone.
And honestly? It’s been life‑changing.
The Benefits of “Me Time”
1. Reduces Stress: Taking time for yourself helps reduce stress by allowing you to relax and recharge. It provides a break from daily pressures, helping you to approach challenges with a clearer mind.
2. Improves Mental Health: Regularly setting aside “me time” can improve mental health by reducing anxiety and depression. It provides an opportunity to reflect and process emotions, leading to increased emotional resilience.
3. Boosts Creativity: When you allow yourself time to unwind, your mind becomes more open to new ideas. Inspiration often appears when you finally slow down.
4. Encourage Self-Discovery: Spending time alone encourages self-reflection and self-discovery. It helps you better understand your desires, goals, and values, aiding in personal growth.
How to Make “Me Time” Part of Your Routine
1. Schedule It: Treat “me time” as an important appointment. Block out time on your calendar and commit to it, ensuring nothing else interferes.
2. Start Small: If you’re new to taking time for yourself, start with short periods, like 10-15 minutes a day. Gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable.
3. Choose Activities You Love: Engage in activities that truly make you happy, whether it’s journaling, gardening, practicing yoga or simply sitting with a cup of tea, choose activities that genuinely make you feel good. This ensures your “me time” is fulfilling.
4. Create a Calm Space: A cosy corner, a tidy desk, or a quiet spot outdoors can make your “me time” feel even more restorative.
My Own Journey with “Me Time”
I’ll be honest—this hasn’t always come naturally to me. When my children were younger, “me time” felt impossible. The only moments I claimed for myself were the ones where I’d finally reached breaking point, which is hardly the ideal way to care for yourself.
Over the years, I’ve learned that it doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. You don’t need spa days or fancy treats (though they’re lovely when they happen). Sometimes a simple walk around the block is enough to clear your head and lift your spirits. Picking up a new hobby, refreshing a room in the house, or catching up with a friend can be just as restorative.
And who knows—you might even find yourself enjoying it.
