Get more "me time" every day
You devote a lot of your life to work, friends and family. But what about the "me time" you need to recharge and refresh? A little "me time" every day can increase your physical and emotional well-being, which helps you stay positive in stressful situations. Opportunities for "me time" are all around – you just have to be creative with your time.
Experience a different A.M. rush
Mornings don't have to be harried. Waking up just ten or fifteen minutes earlier can give you a little extra time to practice some stretching, read the paper, take a walk or simply enjoy a healthy breakfast.
If the thought of your commute makes you cringe, try using the trip for a "me time" moment. Instead of pulling out your laptop while on the train, write in a journal or read an entertaining book. If you drive to work, skip the usual radio show for something out of the ordinary. How about practicing a foreign language from an instructional CD?
All work and no play?
If you're constantly busy, you could be doing too much. Don't be afraid to say "no" to lunch invitations, volunteer activities or even chores. Say to yourself, "this is my time." Then take a walk and do some window shopping or visit a local attraction. If you're feeling more energetic, work up a sweat with an hour-long power walk.
Unwind at the end of the day
Evenings are the perfect time to relax and reflect. So instead of settling down in front of the tube or chatting with friends, try turning off the TV and phone for an hour. Light some candles, play your favourite music, draw a fragrant bath and just soak away the stress.
You could also spend an evening doing something you haven't done for a while: go through your photos, write a good old-fashioned letter, challenge yourself with a 1,000-piece puzzle or try a game of solitaire. You can even do absolutely nothing – after all, it's your personal time.
