Well friends, the year is starting to come to an end, and if you’re like me, it means that lots of projects need to be finished and there are tons of personal plans on the calendar. I absolutely love holidays and spending time with family. However, since launching my own business, I’ve learned that I am a workaholic. It’s something I both love and hate to admit. Yes, it’s great and wonderful that I am a self-motivated, get-things-done kind of girl. I’m quick to the drawl, and I can complete a to-do list like nobody’s business. However, I wear myself thin, and I immediately feel guilty if I’m not always working. Life shouldn’t be like that.

Today, I want to encourage you to genuinely carve out time for yourself. It’s not an easy task, and it doesn’t come naturally for me. However, I think taking time for yourself is one of the best investments you can make.

1. More Motivation

   In the past, when I have taken an afternoon, a day, or a whole weekend off for personal time, I have been more motivated to finish my work the week leading up. I initially thought I couldn’t handle a day or even a few hours off from working. However, it turned out that when I focused on the goal of a date night with Hayden or even just a short coffee date with a friend, I was much more motivated to finish my work and even try work ahead! You obviously have to realistic that you can’t do two weeks of work in one day, and you likely can’t take three days off of work every week. I’ve noticed when I set realistic work expectations, and I have a reward {a date night or family time}, I am much more motivated to work during my workday. I am also more motivated when I return from personal time. I feel rested and ready to get to work.

2. Peace

   This is my favorite reason why I believe you should take time for yourself. The peace that you feel is so enjoyable. If you’re like me, I am often stressed by my daunting to-do list. Taking time for yourself is so important as it is good for your body to relax. Time to rest your eyes from your smartphone or computer is crucial to fully relax. Your body should not be stressed 24/7. This peace can come from quality time with family, enjoying a hot cup of coffee, or maybe going on a short 5 minute walk. Whatever the case is, I think it’s important to put your technology away and enjoy moments of peace!

3. Life is too Short to be Serious

   Yes, work is often essential to survival. I understand that your job provides you with funds to live and enjoy life. However, life is just too short to be serious and work all of the time. Taking time for yourself doesn’t mean you have to take a trip to NYC for a week, it might just mean spending 10 minutes alone in the morning to refocus. This time for yourself doesn’t need to cost you a cent, but it can bring you more joy and feel more at peace! Have some fun!

Taking time for yourself is often subjective. Maybe you’re reading this and thinking, “Haley Nicole, I’m glad you can take time for yourself, but that’s just not for me. I don’t have time, and I don’t think it’s that big of a deal.” I’ll be honest, I didn’t think it was for me either. However, I’ve personally noticed the difference, and I know what the results look and feel like. Give it a try! It doesn’t need to be anything elaborate, but a few hours offline can seriously heal your body in ways you didn’t even know! I’ll be cheering you on and wishing you luck in finding a few minutes for yourself.

xoxo,