The Importance of 'Me-Time'

What do you do, when life gets on top of you? Grab some time for yourself, of course.

Mastering the art of 'Me-Time'...
We live in a 'busy' society. We all seem to be dashing around, iPhone in hand, off to do something important. It can be difficult to switch off, when there's so much going on. Work, social life, the gym and whatever else you do.

Last year, I started to realise, more than ever, how important it is to grab a little time to myself. No phone, nobody around me, no distractions. Sometimes, it's something you have to force yourself to do  - even in the midst of all the 'busyness'.

My 'deep-in-thought' face 

Put it in your diary 

If you're organised, everything you do goes in your diary. So why not schedule the time you'll be spending by yourself? That way, you'll have something to look forward to and you can plan it around your other important bits and bobs. If you pick up a hobby that happens at the same time, every week, 'me time' becomes a part of your routine.

Get refreshed 

Maybe you'll book a massage. You may just grab a Starbucks and an hour with your favourite book. You could go for a stroll, with your iPod in. You may even just have a Netflix catch up or a DIY pamper evening. Whatever you do, make it low key. It's a great time to reflect.


Don't be afraid of your own company 

In my opinion, there is something not quite right about people who are afraid to be by themselves. Even if you're in a relationship, it's important to spend a little time by yourself. Otherwise, you turn into a weird blob siamese twin sort of creature and that's not fun for anybody.
I don't know about you but I'm pretty good company. You don't always need conversation with someone else to feel alive or validated. Why not just exist?

Clent, looking beautiful

Get scribbling 

You would be amazed at how many fresh ideas or new perspectives you gain, when you're spending time not really thinking about much at all. I have had some of my most profound thoughts and solutions to things that have been bugging me, when I've been alone. Then what do I do? Write them down,  of course. By the time I've got back to my car or the train station, I'll have forgotten them.

Switch off the technology 

You can't have 'Me Time', if you're constantly on your phone. I found a quote the other day that actually made me sigh a little. It said 'we don't say 'brb' anymore because we never leave our devices.'  As sad as that sounds, it's true. So, when I'm spending some time alone, I try not to check my phone or answer texts etc. And you know what? I usually find that I haven't really missed anything.

My 'Me-Time' 

I love independent coffee shops but there's nothing like going to a Starbucks where the staff know you, you have your favourite seat and there's a perk or two. (Read: upgrade). I find a Spotify playlist, grab a book and chill out. Bliss. Plus, my favourite one is on the way home from work. So thank you, Starbucks Five Ways for making my impromptu visits so enjoyable.

When the weather is lovely, I like to go for a walk. Usually up Clent Hills or along Harborne Walkway. Usually, I'll pray about stuff I've got on my mind, soak up how beautiful my surroundings are and leave feeling much better.

Used with permission. Source - Alece Birnbach

Hope that's given you a few ideas. I think it's about time we stole a few hours back for ourselves. I've found that it actually helps to make me more productive. Win-win situation, no? What do you do, during your 'me time'? Tweet me or leave a comment.  

Love,

Melly 

xx