Scheduling ‘Me Time’: Why It’s Not Selfish, It’s Essential

The Chaos That Steals Our Stillness

Somewhere between the school drop-offs, back-to-back meetings, and the “what’s for dinner?” mental gymnastics, I realised I hadn’t sat still—properly still—for about four days. Not even a quiet cup of tea (or a warm one for that matter) without a background chorus of emails, washing machines, or someone calling “Mum!”. Sound familiar?

Busyness Isn’t a Badge of Honour

In the chaos of life, we often wear our busyness like a badge of honour. But somewhere along the way, we forget that we can’t pour from an empty cup—or even one that’s half full and cold.

What ‘Me Time’ Really Means

That’s where me time comes in. And no, it’s not a luxury. It’s not indulgent. It’s essential.

Now, I’m not talking about disappearing to a Balinese retreat for a month (although, if that’s an option—please pack me in your suitcase). I mean carving out small, intentional pockets of time just for you. Time to breathe, to rest, to reset. Because when we take the time to reconnect with ourselves, we show up better for everyone else.

Small Moments That Make a Big Difference

For me, “me time” can look different depending on the week. Sometimes it’s reading a book in bed with the phone on silent. Other times, it’s taking a walk where no one calls my name, or simply sitting in the car for five extra minutes before going inside and letting the noise of the day catch up. Finding some quiet alone time to decompress mentally!

The Science-Backed Benefits of Me Time

And here’s the thing—science backs up the benefits. Regular downtime helps reduce stress hormones, boosts creativity, improves memory, and increases emotional resilience. It also allows our nervous system to stop running in ‘fight or flight’ mode and switch into ‘rest and digest’—which, quite frankly, sounds like a much nicer way to live.

Checking In with Yourself

Me time also gives us space to check in. How am I, really? What do I need more of? Less of? It’s in these quiet pauses that we often find clarity—or at least remember where we left the keys.

You Have to Schedule It

Of course, the trickiest bit is actually scheduling it. Life doesn’t usually hand you an hour with a ribbon on it and say, “Here you go, take care of yourself.” You have to claim it. Block it out in the calendar like you would any other important appointment—because you are one.

Start Small, But Start

Start small. Ten minutes of deep breathing, journaling, or stretching. Say no to something you don’t need to do, and yes to yourself. Set boundaries. Ask for help. And remind yourself (daily, if necessary) that taking time for you doesn’t make you selfish, it makes you sustainable.

You’re Worth the Time

So, here’s your gentle reminder: you are worthy of your own time and care. The world won’t stop if you step back for a moment—but you might just find you return to it with more energy, more patience, and a little more sparkle.

Now, if you’ll excuse me… I’ve got a date with a cup of tea behind a closed door!