Let’s be honest: life is BUSY. Between work, family, relationships, and personal responsibilities, finding a moment for yourself can feel nearly impossible. There were days when I couldn’t even spare a few minutes to have a real conversation with my kids. I felt overwhelmed, out of my league, and drowning in guilt—often to the point of tears.
I kept asking myself: How do I make time for everything, including myself? Is balance even possible, or is this just how life is meant to be?
Here’s the truth I had to face: You cannot pour from an empty cup. We always hear this, but do we live by it? The moment we accept this fact, we must also choose to prioritize ourselves, not as an afterthought, but as a necessity.
The good news? Taking care of yourself doesn’t require a dramatic overhaul. It starts with small, intentional moments—pausing to breathe, resetting your mind, and allowing yourself the grace to rest without guilt. Sometimes, that looks like just five minutes of stillness. Other times, it’s learning to say no without apologizing.
And that’s precisely what I did. Little by little, I found ways to carve out time for me without neglecting the people and responsibilities I love. Now, I want to share what worked for me, in the hope that it helps you do the same—because you deserve it.
I Wake Up 10 Minutes Earlier
Before the world starts pulling at me, I take 10 minutes in the morning to sit in silence, meditate, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee without distractions. Starting my day on my terms makes all the difference. As Robin Sharma said, “The way you start your day determines how well you live your day.”
I Use My Commute Wisely
Instead of mindlessly scrolling or stressing in traffic, I turn my commute into a moment of peace. Sometimes, I listen to a guided meditation, calming music, or a simple breathing exercise. If I’m on public transport, I close my eyes for a few moments and just be.
I Turn Shower Time Into Spa Time
Since I have to shower anyway, I make it a moment of self-care. I use aromatherapy oils, play soft music, and take deep breaths. This small shift transforms an everyday task into a refreshing ritual.
I Set Boundaries with Technology
Social media and constant notifications used to steal my time. Now, I set ‘phone-free’ hours or turn off notifications when I need a break. That extra 20-30 minutes is now spent on a quiet walk, journaling, or deep breathing—things that nourish me.
I Take a 5-Minute Breather
Even on my busiest days, I step outside, close my eyes, and take slow, deep breaths for five minutes. Just five! It’s like hitting a mental reset button, and it makes all the difference.
I Schedule ‘Me Time’ Like a Meeting
If it’s not on my calendar, it probably won’t happen. So, I block off time for myself just like I would for any important appointment—and I protect that time fiercely.
I Make Cooking a Mindful Activity
Instead of rushing through meal prep, I take a moment to notice the colors, textures, and smells. Cooking can be meditative when I focus on the process rather than just getting it done.
I Say No Without Guilt
I’ve learned that every ‘yes’ to someone else is a ‘no’ to myself. Setting boundaries and saying no when my plate is already full isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for my peace.
I Turn Everyday Moments Into Self-Care
Now, I sip my tea slowly, stretch before bed, or listen to an inspiring podcast while doing laundry. Self-care doesn’t have to be a big, dramatic gesture; sometimes, it’s just making the most of the moments I already have.
I Ask for Help
I’ve learned that I don’t have to do it all alone. I delegate tasks, ask my partner to take over for a bit, or swap favors with a friend. There’s real strength in knowing when to ask for support.
Why It Matters
Taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Too often, we push ourselves to the limit, thinking that rest is something we’ll earn once everything else is done. But the truth is, the to-do list never really ends. If we keep waiting for the “right time” to prioritize ourselves, that time may never come.
When I finally allowed myself to pause and recharge, I noticed a shift—not just in how I felt, but in how I showed up for my family, my work, and even my dreams. I was more patient, more present, and more in tune with what truly mattered. The exhaustion that once felt like a permanent state of being? It started to fade. And the guilt that used to accompany self-care? I realized it was misplaced. Because taking care of me didn’t take away from others—it made me better for them.
You deserve moments of peace, even in the middle of the chaos. You deserve to breathe, to rest, and to reclaim parts of yourself that may have been buried under responsibilities.
So, start today. Choose one small step. Pick just one of these simple practices and make time for you. Because when you prioritize yourself, everything else benefits—including the people you love.
Drop us a comment below or send to thebeyondwomanmagazine@gmail. Let us know how you are getting along.
