Not Everyone Finds Me Time Easy
Do you believe that not everyone finds it easy to have me time? That statement is true and real. Many people just don't like the time they spend just struggling with their own thoughts. There are several reasons why people find it difficult to be alone, such as the following.
1. Not used to me time
Some people may not be used to being alone because the majority of their time is spent with or around other people. In fact, if they isolate themselves, they can feel alienated or disconnected from the world.
2. There are many troublesome thoughts and feelings
Having time to yourself certainly makes the attention only on yourself and it may feel more difficult and painful. Many people find that this time only leads to increased worry.
3. Social stigma
Stigmas about solitude can affect how one feels about me time. For example, when someone perceives solitude as negative or seen as a form of antisocial behavior. As a result, me time seems like a painful form of punishment.
How do you get out of the fear of doing things alone? You need to know first what the benefits of me time are. While being alone doesn't always improve your mood, it can at least help you manage and regulate your emotions better.
Me time looks fun, but it's not for everyone.
Tips for Planning Me Time
Me time is not meant to run away from problems, but to improve mental well-being. This needs to be done voluntarily, so there is no feeling of pressure. It is also important for us to decide when is the best time to return to the social world. On the other hand, sometimes there are those who are constrained by time availability. So, let's try these tips to plan your me time.
1. Choose the time
Decide when you want to spend time alone. Put it in your daily schedule and make sure others understand that you should not be disturbed during that time.
2. Turn off social media
Minimize distractions as much as possible, one of which is social media which is all about "comparison". Focus on your own thoughts and interests, not on what others are doing or getting.
3. Plan activities
Me time is not just about spending time alone, but doing what you want to do. Plan activities that you may not have done so far or spend time pursuing a hobby.
4. Take a walk
Me time is not only done by sitting in silence, but it can be done by taking a walk to get more time outdoors.
Now that you have the tips, the question arises, how long is the best time for me time? The answer is that it depends on each person. Some only need 5 or 15 minutes and some need longer than that. To find out, try to find a balance between the two that suits your own needs.
Pick a time, put away the social media, and plan your me time activities.
Make sure others respect your choice to be alone
Making time for me time isn't always easy and other people may not understand our need to be alone. For example, for a working mom with a toddler or for young people of the sandwich generation. To overcome this, there are several steps you can take to ensure that your me time is not interrupted by others, such as the following.
- Be clear: there's nothing wrong with letting those around you know that you need time alone.
- Be specific: let others know what you need, such as a day off for a short-trip or just to read a book.
- Return the favor: if others are willing and understanding of your needs, then do the same for them.
- Be flexible: be more flexible with your time if you live with or near other people, for example by asking your mom to look after the kids for a while.
It is not easy for everyone to make time for themselves, especially because they are used to doing everything while being close to other people. Tips for me time are to set a time, keep social media away, and plan activities. It's also important to make sure others appreciate your time for yourself. Let's share your favorite me time!
Let's download the Fitie application now to get tips and other interesting information!