When most women think about having some “me time,” they instantly feel guilty for even wanting it. It’s like it is some extremely rare jewel that should only be worn by royalty. It’s like some island in the middle of nowhere that will be spoiled if it is touched or inhabited in any way.
However, spending some good quality alone time isn’t just a luxury that is afforded by very few; it is a necessity. It gives you some much needed quietness to hear the thoughts that are bouncing around in your head, begging to be heard. It can help you regroup against the pressures of your day, both at work and at home.
Even though you likely realize that these benefits (and more) exist when you get a few moments to yourself, it can still be difficult to make this time a regular part of your schedule because you feel as if you are somehow letting those around you down when you do. That is, until now.
Here’s how to make time for yourself and not feel guilty in the least about it so you can enjoy it for what it is – time for just you:
#1 Give Everyone in Your Family Their Own “Me Time”
Part of feeling guilty about having your own “me time” involves the fact that you getting your alone time when no one else you love is getting the same. So, you can kick this excuse to the curbside when you make sure everyone in your house has the ability to enjoy some time on their own and learns to enjoy it as much as you do.
If it is easier, you can each take your time alone on the same day and time (like on Mondays from 5-9 PM) or you can pick different times throughout the week so that you all have access to the vehicle to make your getaway. It doesn’t matter which way you go; simply choose what works best for you and stick to it week in and week out.
Of course, if you have real little ones, giving them “me time” without checking in on them can be a disaster. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t encourage them to enjoy some time alone by keeping track of them with a monitor or by keeping their door slightly cracked so you can peek in and make sure everything is okay.
#2 Create “Us Time”
You can’t feel guilty about having “me time” if you create “us time,” too. This tells the ones that you love that you want to keep the family a priority even though you need your moments of solitude every so often.
Schedule weekly date nights with your honey and family fun nights with the kids. That way they won’t be so quick to chastise you for wanting your time alone as they know that they’ll have your full attention soon enough.
#3 Focus on the Benefits to Others
If you feel bad about taking some time alone because you feel as if it is a negative to those around you (since you aren’t accessible to them right when they want you), think again. Actually, your time on your own benefits them and in more ways than one.
When you can clear your head and relax your body a bit, you have a higher level of patience with those around you and you aren’t as quick to lose your temper. You also tend to be more compassionate because you’re not on edge and you’re more willing to help them because you don’t feel stretched so thin.
Look at your “me time” in this way and you’ll see that it is as beneficial to others as it is to you. That makes it much easier to take because it is not only in your best interest, but it is in theirs as well.
#4 Make it Multi-Purpose “Me Time”
Still feel guilty despite all of the positives that “me time” offers? If so, then you can make your time alone multi-purpose so that you don’t have to feel guilty for just goofing off and doing something that you enjoy solely for the sake of enjoying it.
For instance, you could take your time alone and use it to take a walk, getting some body enhancing exercise. Or, you could take your child and husband-free time and learn a new language or take an online class. That way you could further your education while getting a break from your day-to-day life.
Getting your time alone isn’t about luxury, it’s about sanity. It’s about giving your mind and body time to decompress so that you don’t blow and that’s nothing to feel guilty about. Ever.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, it is time for my “me time.” I’m not sure what I’m going to do, but one thing is for sure – I’m not going to feel guilty about taking it. Not one bit!
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