Making Time for Myself
I have found that making time for myself has been extremely helpful in increasing the efficiency of my output at both work and home. I started by allotting 15 min to myself everyday. In this 15 minutes, I do whatever pleases me most. It's my 5 minutes! I have earned it! No phones are answered, no demands met outside of my own. Give it a try!
I also find taking even just 15 minutes to change my scenery (get away from my desk), I can go back and be more focused and refreshed. Also, when I finally do get home, I make a cup of tea, literally put my feet up, and read the good old fashion newspaper. I always start with the comics and then skim the rest to see what's going on in the rest of the world. It gives me a chance to decompress and recharge and make the transition from Supervisor to Mom, wife and daughter. It helps me from "bringing my work home" with me. I can leave the emotional/stressors at the door. After reading the paper, I often feel very fortunate and realize I had a pretty good day compared to many in the news. It helps put my stress in perspective.
Actually this is the best way to cope with any stress both work and home. I really enjoy it.
Latoya, Yes, sometimes it's great to push ourselves toward really enjoying life. It actually takes effort to shop, walk and spa, but these things can help relax us too.
Dr. Melissa Read
DANIEL, That sounds like a wonderful approach. Taking a quick break in a quiet place can really help us press the reset button.
Dr. Melissa Read
I do the same I sits in a quiet room and just relax when I eat lunch
Jean, What an interesting situation you are in. It sounds like you are primed to soon rediscover old interests and discover new ones as well!
Dr. Melissa Read
I can say that I have the tendency to get sidetracked and forget about the little things that I like to do. If I am at home I may watch a movie or just lay around and do nothing. However, I have remind myself that I like "me time" outside of the home. Like a little retail therapy, a nice walk, spa day, and visiting the hair salon can be relaxing.
That sounds like a great idea!!
I generally try to do that while I'm AT work. For example: being certain to eat lunch (we don't get lunch breaks), or visiting the restroom when I need to (not only when I have a spare minute).
But I would love to begin practicing "me time" at home. I just need to figure out what I like to do......it's been so long!
