When was the last time you were present with just your thoughts?

We’ve all created what feels like a never ending to-do list and wondered why there aren’t more hours in a day. From running errands around town to completing assignments and household chores, lists are helpful reminders which keep our goals in order. Our daily demands may go forgotten if not included, but, consider how often we don’t make time for ourselves apart from life’s demands.

Taking time for ourselves is just as important as completing that basket of laundry or paper in need of editing. When we begin taking time to clear our minds, the work we produce becomes more creative and
efficient.

Taking care of our health and happiness keeps us contribute to our goals by accomplishing them with a winning outlook. These moments of reflection are important for keeping goals and actions aligned and heading in the right direction.

When we make good decisions day to day, it leads us to where we want to be. If we make bad decisions and don’t keep up with life’s demands, of course the result will show this.

The body, as well as the mind, needs rest to function. If we fail to take care of ourselves as we do our work, sooner or later, it is directly reflected.

Finding brief moments to clear your mind during the day or making an hour for uninterrupted reflection is a great way to get started and begin considering self-care as part of the routine.

Some easy ways to start clearing your schedule for some availability include making a separate list of things you can stop doing. These could be checking social media regularly, watching four hours of shows and other activities that don’t provide any real value to your day.

Becoming more comfortable with telling people “no” is also an effective way to claim back some free time. We all have people or causes we would do anything for, but being able to say “no” to the right things will keep you on track of your goals.

Words are powerful when you know how to use them. For instance, the phrase “I don’t” can be helpful when claiming back your time. Explaining that you simply don’t check emails after the day is done or don’t plan to schedule anything during a specific time of day shows people you are prioritizing rather than neglecting responsibilities.

Even a 40-second break in between moving from task to task brings control back to your day.

When you have the time, use it. Take advantage of the opportunity for productive things that bring joy to your day. Writing, meditation, exercise, listening to music and catching up with friends are all great ways to spend this time. Whichever way you choose to spend this time can help you to embrace life the way you do work.