Do I really have to convince you that it is important to take time for yourself? I didn’t think so. If you know it’s necessary, why aren’t you doing it on a regular? Taking time away from the everyday obligations, work, spouse, and kids.

Some people will even say, “Yes! It’s okay to be selfish, sometimes.” I won’t even call it selfish. Time away for you to be by yourself is necessary for staying healthy, mentally AND physically. “Me Time” is your chance to unload, recharge, and to get inspired. “Me Time” is an opportunity to wipe the slate clean, to quiet the “noise” and hear the God voice in you, to reaffirm intentions, to get clarity on an issue or problem, to reclaim your beauty, to meditate, or to just rest and be still.

“Me Time” doesn’t have to cost money. So, make no excuses! “Me Time” can be as simple as sitting in the bathroom by yourself and telling everyone, “Do Not Disturb”.  While we are on excuses, let’s be clear, no one can take time away from you, unless you give it away.  You are in the middle of “Me Time”, the phone rings, why are you running to answer it? 30 minutes later you are still on the phone and your “Me Time” is gone. The kids are crying and you are the only one who can solve their problems. Really? Daddy is watching or the nanny, but you feel compelled to save the day.  “Me Time” requires that you value yourself enough to take this time, putting all guilt and protests to rest.

It’s easy to forget that nurturing yourself is mandatory. I suggest you schedule “Me Time” into your calendar. Schedule daily, weekly, and if you can afford it, a longer “vacation” time. Daily time can be before bed or time in the shower, simply affirming thoughts or watching thoughts float by. Weekly time can be stealing an hour to walk in the park. Take weekly time to do something you enjoy. Be creative, it doesn’t have to cost a penny. The book “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron offers many great ideas for nurturing the soul and creative self. Vacation time is time to refuel the engines, to put things in order, to make resolutions, and to plan new projects.

Sometimes it is difficult to take “Me Time” because you may feel guilty enjoying yourself without your family. Remember it’s momentary, you need this time to de-stress so you can be the best you, you can be, and if you don’t value yourself others won’t value you either.

If you have questions or comments about “Me Time”, contact Sandra A. Daley at info@sandradaley.com or visit her at http://www.sandradaley.com. If you like this article you may also enjoy, “Being With Life As It Is”