As Mums and small business owners we are often running around trying to make sure everyone else is ok. Juggling what feels like a million tasks at once, organising, planning, cleaning up messes. Trying to make sure everyone is fed and where they need to be, when they need to be there. That’s how I usually feel anyway. It can be overwhelming and stressful and sometimes its so hard to switch off and relax.

Taking some time out for yourself is so important for your own wellbeing. You are important too!! It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve your mental health, help you to be more compassionate and even make you feel more energetic!! Yes, by slowing down and taking some time for yourself, you can actually have more energy and feel less fatigued 😊

At the start of the year, I made a promise to myself to take a bit more time for me and focus on my own mental health. Whether that’s by going for a run, booking that facial or sitting quietly with a good book, it doesn’t matter. It’s just doing a little something for me, prioritising my peace, my health and my mindset. How do I make this work? Well, my diary is my best friend!

I have learnt that the best way to give myself the time to do something for me is to block out that time in my diary. Then I can work in other commitments around the time I am setting aside to prioritise me!! I have found that my mental health has improved greatly. I feel healthier and I am taking better care of me.

Here are some tips for taking time for yourself:

• Schedule it in: Write it in your diary or on the calendar just like you would for other activities. If it’s written down its happening!!
• Set boundaries: Let others know when you need time for yourself. It’s not selfish, you are important too.
• Practice self-care: For me this year has been the start of a great skincare routine in the morning and evening. It isn’t a huge time commitment, but I find it incredibly relaxing and its good for my skin!! You could try a bubble bath, going for a walk or even book a massage!! 
• Ask for help: Feeling overwhelmed? Ask friends and family to help you make time for yourself. It is not a sign of weakness to ask for help. There are only so many hours in a day and sometimes you just cannot do everything. I don’t know about you, but it makes me feel pretty good when I am able to help someone else out. If they truly care about you, they will be more than happy to help.
• Pamper yourself: Do things that make you feel good!! What we think about ourselves matters!
• Take a break: Give yourself permission to relax and process your day’s stresses. You are not a machine.
• Reflect: Take time to think and reflect. Sometimes I am so busy my head is a massive jumble. Taking some time to reflect can really help to calm my mind, to realise what I have achieved.

What is your favourite way to take time for you? Let me know 😊