Life is too short: Defining ways to make more time for yourself

Time is precious and most people don’t think they have enough of it in a 24 hour-day. Our lives can get so crazy even though we have modern technology that is supposed to make our lives easier its often difficult to catch up with the demands and neglect ourselves. In this months article we’ll be defining ways to help you find time for yourself, get your schedule in control, and reducing stress.

1. Write down reasons why you want more free time and goals.
Write down all activities that you desire to do more of. Maybe you’d like to spend more time with family, getting more sleep, volunteering, or to sit and read a book. Maybe you’d like to go skydiving? After writing down your goals prioritize what you’d like to focus on first.

2.Ask yourself what you can give up. Learn to say “No!”
Are you taking on too much? Do I really need to stay up and watch the late night news? Could I get up earlier in the morning? Do I really need to check my email every 15 minutes?? Do I need to say no to some extra activities?

3. Write things down and look at your calendar. Schedule time for yourself as a priority.
How many times have you cancelled that massage, lunch with a friend, or the date out with your spouse because something else came up? As time goes by we realize that we spend less time on the things we enjoy and than it is easy to feel overwhelmed and even depressed. Taking time for ourselves each day is part of the balance of life.

4. Learn to say: Yes”
Next time your son or daughter wants you to play a game, forget the laundry for a moment. Take 10-15 minutes each day just for you. Read a book, take a walk, shoot some hoops, take a bike ride, or visit with a friend.

5. Reflect
As you adjust and make changes to make more time for yourself go back to your list and see what goals you’ve accomplished. You’ll be able to see your progress and redefine new goals you have discovered you now have. Ask yourself do I feel more satisfied with my life than before? Do I feel more relaxed? What are other things that I’d like to add to the list?

Karina Narduzzi B.A., C.A.M.F.
Positive Solutions Anger Management and Executive Coaching
www.positivesolutions.org