The importance of making time to do what we love

It’s all too often that we hear from women that they don't have the time, or the energy, to do anything for themselves after a long and stressful week at work and looking after the kids. So often we cancel dinner plans, gym classes, or coffees with our girlfriends just because we “don’t have enough hours in the day”. Indeed, we as women are often plagued with the idea that doing these things is an “indulgence” that makes us selfish if we do them.

What this line of thinking fails to understand however, is that when we take time to do what we love (“me time” as some call it), we are better able to serve those around us. Failing to take care of ourselves means we are much more prone to exhaustion, illness from stress, and burnout – all of which negatively impact those around us. The idea of filling up your own cup before you fill up that of others nails this point. As humans, we require time and space to recharge – and recharging means different things for different people. While it may be a sleep in for one, it could be an early morning walk around the bay for another, or a spa day with a girlfriend for someone else. It does not have to be with anyone else, and can be completely solitary – as long as whatever you are doing is for you!

Taking this time positively impacts our mood by increasing our view of ourselves and the world. By giving yourself the time and space to get to know yourself better, not only does your self-love improve but also your social batteries are recharged so that your outlook on the wider world around you is increasingly positive. This trickles down into physical benefits like increased energy and better sleep, further increasing your joy. This causes you to have better relationships with your friends and family, as you are more energised and valued, but also are able to better set boundaries when required. Taking time for yourself, no matter how you do it, or how often you do, will allow you to come back with a fresh mindset on any stress or anxieties you may be facing. And your increased energy and self-worth may also cause you to see problems in a new light.