Six Secrets to Tame your Time: Secret #3

(2-minute read time) 

Secret #3, self-care, is one many of us resist.  I think that’s because we don’t really know what it is.  

The term “self-care” often conjures up images of bubble baths, face masks, and pedicures.  I call malarkey on that!  Sure those things are nice, if you like that sort of thing.  But, the truth is self-care is far more meaningful  And, it is utterly crucial to becoming the person you identified in Secret #2.  Countless studies have shown that without self-care humans suffer the following consequences: 

• Increased physical illness 
• Impaired personal and professional relationships 
• Decreased self-esteem 

So, in short, taking care of yourself is not at all selfish.  Instead, it is one of the most responsible, intelligent things you can do for yourself and those around you.  

I know many of you are probably going to resist this but I want you to make self-care a non-negotiable priority. 

You cannot pour from an empty pitcher.  These actions are not a luxury, they are a critical ingredient to becoming the version of yourself that you really want to be.     

Free Time:  This is your first self-care activity.  Every single day, give yourself completely unscheduled, free time.  Yes, every day.  Even if it’s just 10 minutes.  Start small, even teeny-tiny, if you have to.  The number of minutes truly does not matter.  Just get into the practice of having free, unoccupied time.  When that time pops up, you can do whatever you want with it.  You can make a phone call to a friend or mentor, take care of a small personal errand, meditate, read your favorite blog or enjoy doing absolutely nothing at all.            

Other self-care options:  You must have additional self-care activities.  Some activities might be every day, some might be once a week or once a month – it’s up to you, just make sure it’s on there.  Maybe you have no idea what to list here because you have been so busy taking care of everyone else.  If that’s you – here are some things I like include: 

• Physical fitness – running, yoga, strength training, walking the dog 
• Spiritual fitness – quiet time, church, volunteer work 
• Mental/Emotional fitness – reading, writing, meditation, meeting with my coach, chat with a friend       

In the space below I’ve started a chart for you.  Write down at least 3 more self-care activities you are willing to commit to and how often you will do them: 

Self Care Activity	Frequency
Free time	10 minutes per day

I know some of you might be thinking; “How can I add even one more thing on my calendar??”.  If you’re feeling that way go back and revisit Secret #2, or even better let’s chat.   I can definitely help.