We all need time to reset, refresh, and recharge…

But, often, finding time to do that seems nearly impossible.

In fact, self-care and “me time” are usually the first things to get pushed further and further down the old to-do list.

Making time for yourself is not a luxury – it is a necessity.

Studies show that self-care increases our ability to manage stress, improves overall wellness, and can actually help us to live longer.

Here are four simple ways that you can make time for yourself this month:

⏰ Schedule a monthly treat for yourself.

Whether it’s a pedicure, a massage, a walk at your favorite park, or simply coffee at your favorite cafe (alone or with a friend) – put it on the schedule at the beginning of each month.

⏰ Arrive to appointments 15 – 20 minutes early.

When you have obligations (doctor appointments, school meetings, etc.) put them on your calendar 15-20 minutes before you actually need to be there. Then take that time to listen to music in your car, read a book in the waiting room, do wordle, or browse funny memes on your phone. Just a little pocket of the day that you can use however you want.

⏰ Take advantage of time alone in your car.

When commuting to work or driving to and from errands, turn off the to-do list in your brain and blast your favorite song, listen to a book on audio, or listen to an uplifting podcast – even if it is in small bits at a time. We spend a significant amount of time in our cars – use it to do something you enjoy.

⏰ Take a lunch or mid-day break every day.

Put your lunch break on your calendar every day and stick to it. Don’t allow work interruptions.

Which one of these ideas could you implement to make your self-care a priority?