Finding Me Time

“The major work of the world is not done by geniuses. It is done by ordinary people, with balance in their lives, who have learned to work in an extraordinary manner.” 
~ Gordon B. Hinckley

Summertime is an awesome time of year. Everyone seems happier, more alive and eager to get out and enjoy the sunshine. I am especially blessed as being in the teaching profession, I am one of the very fortunate ones who gets the summer off. This is something that I do not flaunt or brag about, as I know how hard many people work around me who do not have this amazing career perk, and I am sincerely aware and sensitive to that. My husband is one of those hard working people who works year round, yet thankfully he does get some vacation time with me in the summer. My profession like many is driven by a strict schedule and is ruled by the bell on a daily basis. This is how a school day must operate and it is an effective system. When the summer comes my life however becomes quite the polar opposite of my day to day life from September to June. Rather than rushing out the door to begin an action packed day, I am afforded the option most days of having a more relaxed,  less structured day that is not ruled by the clock which is quite refreshing. I highly recommend that everyone schedule some of these days on their calendar no matter what type of job you have. When the school year commences, I try to keep my Saturdays this way as much as possible, as it seems to be just what I need to offset a busy week. 

Life in general it seems has become far too busy for everyone. Our calendars are often plastered with so many commitments and appointments that even to look at the schedule can make us tired. Balance is something that many of us are lacking. Often when we get busier, we can fall into the trap of poor self care and it can really take its toll on us. To be effective in our workplaces, families and society in general it is so important to take time for ourselves, to be the best we can be in all aspects. We need to make a conscious effort to order our lives with the inclusion of activities that edify us. “Me” time looks different for everyone, yet here’s my thoughts on six things I do regularly to lift my spirits and keep my life in order when it gets a bit hectic. 

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~ Find a great hobby or interest
Taking time for ourselves can come in many forms. Some of us need to find new hobbies or interests. What do you enjoy that excites you and is a healthy, enjoyable option? Blogging has become a new and real keen interest of mine and I am really enjoying it. It keeps me writing and allows me to get in touch with people in a way that was never possible in the past. Several months ago, I did not even understand what a blog was or what I would even write about. Now it has become something very special to me and a unique way that I am hopefully making a difference in other’s lives. 

~ Schedule a nap
Taking time for ourselves may mean getting more rest. Many of us are walking around sleep deprived and we may not even know it. Coffee can help, but it only gets you so far believe me. I love to nap! It is one of my favourite things. Funny how when we were younger, naps were something most of us dreaded. Not now! At least not for me, as it is a chance to forget about stress for a bit anyways. I always set my alarm so I don’t oversleep for a nap and then when I wake I  feel more ready to take on the second part of my day!


~ Get moving
Exercise is a great way to put yourself on top of the priority list once again. Honestly, I enjoy walking but need to get back to more regular exercising as when I do I feel so much better. This is one of my current goals to make exercise once again more of a regular routine as I know how much it will benefit me. Find what type of exercise you most enjoy and make a commitment to it. You will be so glad you did.

~ Candy Crush Anyone?
A little mindless activity can be very beneficial as well. Admittedly, I am a big Candy Crush fan and I do enjoy Facebook and seeing what everyone it up to. As mentioned balance is everything, yet games and social media can be great as long as they are used in the right amount.

~Bonding with Besties 
Spending time with friends and family that encourage you is crucial. Make an effort to call a good friend and get together or have a nice phone conversation with a best buddy. This can be just what is needed to put you back on track. Those that love us most let us be ourselves and help us with getting perspective and problem solving.  

~ Power of Prayer
Taking time for myself means spending time in prayer and asking God to direct my day and help me with my problems. I bring to Him all my concerns both big and small and in return I feel refreshed and so much better. I pray that I may operate in His strength as we were never made to walk this life on our own. His strength is perfect and will keep us going even through the hardest of days. 

You are so amazing and are meant to thrive not just exist. All work and no play can lead to a very stressful life. Taking time for yourself is not selfish, but very healthy. Make sure that this happens on a regular basis in the ways that work for you and you will be a much healthier and happier person. 

God bless!
~ Dana

Psalms 91:1 ~ He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.  

Little Lesson Learned: Take care of yourself. You are so worth it!

Copyright: Littlelessonslearnedbydana, 2014