You’re busy, I’m busy, everyone these days is incredibly busy. Hectic mornings turn into rushed days, and at night, you barely have enough time to get in an episode of Stranger Things before it all starts over again. Finding some quiet time, even on a busy day off, can seem impossible. If you’re having trouble finding “me” time, try these four tips to find some peace and quiet during a busy day.
Make an Appointment with Yourself
You likely make appointments all day with co-workers, clients, doctors, or teachers. The list goes on and on. Challenge yourself to make a 30-minute appointment, in the middle of the day, with the most important person you know. Can you guess who that is? It’s you.
Make an appointment as regularly as you can and keep it every time. It’s not enough to say we want to do something for ourselves, we actually have to do it. And before you start thinking otherwise, yes, you do deserve it.
Read a Book, Not Your Phone
That brings us to what to do with yourself when you’re by yourself. You may be tempted to scroll through your Facebook feed, post to Twitter, or check your Instagram. Resist this urge. Quiet time is not meant for you to do the same thing you do every time you have a quick second to breathe. Put down your phone and try picking up a book. Taking the time to read a book has been proven to reduce stress, increase intelligence, and help you sleep at night. Give it a try.
Take a Bath
Nothing says quiet time like drawing a hot bath. If the demands of the day seem relentless, manufacture some guaranteed alone time in a space no one will bother you. Drop in your favorite bath bomb and light a few candles for some added pampering. Whether it’s a hot soak after a long day or a much-needed respite in the middle of the afternoon, a bath can reset your mood and de-stress your day.
Find Time Anywhere You Can
If your idea of alone time is yelling at the car that just cut you off during your morning commute, then you need all the help you can get. Anytime, anywhere. That’s what I say. Stop by your favorite boutique and try on some new clothes. Linger in the dressing room as long as you need to and catch your breath. Retail therapy can take many forms. Find an infrequently visited area in your office and decompress as needed. Remember playing hide and seek as a kid? I’m not saying you should wedge yourself behind the sofa or under the bed, but girl, you gotta do something. Volunteer to pick up lunch for everyone and take a moment to enjoy a cup of tea. Do whatever you have to do to find some quiet time during the day because in the end no one’s going to take care of you but you.
