A Healthy Shift in Perspective
At COR Wellness, we often hear some form of the phrase “I need more me time” from members of our employee wellness program and executives alike. Sound familiar? It’s that feeling that obligations to others dominate your life.
We are not denying that burnout exists. It does! We suggest you consider taking ownership of your life and time and reframe it entirely. Every moment already is, in fact, me time! The key is recognizing it. Here are a few ways to evolve your perspective and fully embrace your time to help improve your mental wellbeing.
You Are the Common Denominator in Your Life
Every experience you participate in – working, parenting, volunteering, socializing, or relaxing includes you. The way you engage with these moments determines whether they feel fulfilling or draining. Reframe your daily activities as opportunities rather than obligations.
Redefine What Me Time Means
Most people equate me time with solitude or leisure, which is important but not exclusive. Me time is about presence and mindset. A work meeting, a conversation with a friend, or running errands are all personal experiences when you approach them with intention and self-awareness. Be present for each activity and clear your mind of other obligations to focus on what is in front of you. Being present is the gift you give yourself and makes things feel less overwhelming.
Embrace the Power of Ownership
When you say, “I need more me time,” you subtly tell yourself that your time isn’t yours. But it is. You have control. Owning your time and how you approach it changes how you experience it. Also, if nobody has told you, you have the power to say no or not now. Remind yourself and others that you can do anything; you just can’t do everything right now.
Find Joy in Ordinary Moments
If you only count self-care rituals or vacations as me time, you miss the richness of daily life. Think about that soul-lifting coffee in your hands. Close your eyes and feel the warmth, smell and taste the richness. Think about how lucky you are to be lock-armed with your work bestie on that big work project. Even daily chores can be fulfilling when you frame them into caring for the safe space you love. Recognize these as moments with and for yourself.
Stop Waiting and Start Living
Are you still putting life on hold? Someday, you will take your dream vacation, or any vacation. Someday, you will reconnect with your good friend from the past. Someday, you will take an art class. Instead of doing, you are growing your list of “somedays” and waiting for the perfect moment to treat yourself. Self-connection isn’t something you schedule; it’s something you foster now. Don’t wait to start your journey.
Recognizing It’s Always Me Time
When we let go of the belief that me time is separate from everything else we are doing in our everyday lives, we reclaim every moment as an opportunity for growth and fulfillment. Stop telling yourself that large portions of your day aren’t moments that matter. The truth is, it’s always me time!
You just spent the last three minutes reading this article. We appreciate you spending your me time with us! This was one of the many choices you made today. Was it worth it? Did it help you? We hope so! We also hope you share this perspective and help others reclaim ownership of their lives. Be well, beautiful human!