Do you find time in your busy schedule for ‘You time’?

We all have a long list of activities, chores and scheduled appointments we have to fit into our lives. Like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, we piece the long list into every minute of each day. No wonder we feel disconnected, exhausted and often lack in aliveness and energy. Within each of us, there is a well of energy that must be regularly replenished. When we act as if this well is bottomless by scheduling a long list of activities, we become depleted. Refilling this well is a matter of finding time to focus on, nurture, and care for ourselves.

We seem to always place our ‘You time’ at the bottom of the list. Wouldn’t it be great to put ourselves as number 1? Now there’s a thought. How refreshing is that? 

We service our car on a regular basis and yet we tend to leave our own spiritual, physical and intellectual needs in the to-do basket, constantly.

Most of us are, at different times throughout the day, a spouse, a friend, a relative, an employee, a parent, or a volunteer, which means that ‘you time’ is not considered or at the end of the list. 

Though some people will inevitably look upon ‘you time' as being selfish, it is actually the polar opposite of selfishness. It is self-full. Imagine that? A full self where we have plenty in our own cup so you can be full and overflowing to give and share with others. We can only excel where our outer world affairs are concerned when our own spiritual, physical, and intellectual needs are fulfilled.    

Firstly we have to recognise that we are not self full and that more often than not, we need regular top-ups for ourselves. Recognising the importance of ‘you time’ is far easier than finding a place for it in an active, multifaceted lifestyle, however. To make the most of 'you time,’ give yourself enough time on either side of the block of time you plan to spend on yourself to ensure that you do not feel rushed. A no rush policy is imperative. Consider how you would like to spend the time, forgetting for the moment your obligations and embracing the notion of renewal, recuperation and restoration. You may discover that you are energised by creative pursuits, guided meditation, relaxing activities during which your mind can wander, or modes of expression such as writing or drawing.  

‘You time’ prepares you for the next round of daily life. It also affords you a unique opportunity to learn about yourself, your needs, and your tolerances in an open hearted way. ‘You time’ can sometimes seem unnecessary, and there is nothing further from the truth, it truly is crucial to your well-being because it ensures that you are never left without the energy to give of yourself. 

We can excel easier in our own lives when our own spiritual, physical and intellectual needs are fulfilled. Schedule it in today!