Making time for yourself is an important part of taking care, but it tends to not be the highest priority. When you factor in how much time you spend on school, work, homework, socializing with family and friends, and trying to get enough sleep, it’s hard to divide everything. Keep reading to find out ways that you can try to implement time for yourself.
Step One: Making Time
As someone who works full time, goes to school full time, and tries to maintain friendships and relationships, my weak point has been finding the time for self-care. What works for me is waking up a little early to focus on myself before starting the day. If you’re not a morning person, maybe try making time after your schedule has calmed down for the day. Once you decide on when you will make time for self-care, try to write it down in a physical or digital planner. This will hold you accountable for making time to practice self-care.
Step Two: Deciding on What to Do
Self-care should be a little selfish. Try to connect to things that make you happy and feel good. There are a lot of videos and articles that emphasize the importance of self-care, but those resources tend to focus on face masks or beauty treatments. Self-care with a super busy schedule should be about taking care of your mental health as well. I also like to talk to my friends about their self-care practices and try them out.
Here are some easy and affordable ways to practice self-care:
- Take time to move your body. You can go on a quick walk between classes, ride a bike instead of driving, go on a hike with friends, or do anything else that sounds fun.
- Try journaling. There are so many resources online that discuss ways to journal and also give prompts.
- Listen to a podcast instead of music during your commute. Try to pick one on a subject that interests you or one that you feel will help you to grow.
- If you have had a long day and you’re able to do so, go to bed early. By doing this, you will feel more refreshed and well-rested in the morning.Â
- If this isn’t an option for you, take some time to unwind by reading a book or watching part of a movie or show before going to bed.
- Spend some time in nature. You don’t necessarily have to go on a hike or do anything active. You could study outside instead of inside or meet up with your friends at a park. You could even enjoy your coffee or tea outside. Being in nature reduces stress and fears and overall makes you calmer and there are so many ways to do it. Â
Step Three: Maintaining Self-care
Once you decide on how you want to make time for yourself and when you have time, the next step is to practice self-care. It may take some experimenting with what works for you, but you can do it. Some examples are caring for your body, physical health, and of course your mental health.
I hope you found this article helpful. Good luck, and enjoy taking care of yourself!