This summer, I’m dedicated to unwinding—at least for a few minutes every day. While that may sound easy to do by simply curling up with a full season of virtually anything on Netflix—it’s hard to put aside the time exclusively for me. I am running a business, recording a podcast, and working on a secret project that is bound to take up a lot of my time this summer. We’re all busy and it can be really tough to find time for yourself to unwind. Often, when you’re busiest is also the most important time to take a T.O. for you. When you’re up against pressure or looming deadlines, sometimes that is also the time for a break.
So, here it is. This summer, I am going to follow these steps to take some valuable me time—every day. I’d like to challenge you to do the same.
Wake Up 10 Minutes Earlier
I know this seems like a bad start, especially for those of us who like to hit the snooze button, then hit it again and again, but hear me out. There’s something really peaceful about the morning, especially before everyone else in the world is awake and starting their day. Take these extra ten minutes a total me time. Use it to brew yourself a coffee, do a little yoga, take a walk around the block, or maybe to start a daily journal. If you’re like me, you will learn to love this solo morning time. By dedicating it to something entirely different from how you spend the rest of the day, you are building new and healthy habits all your own. The best part? Nobody is going to interrupt your 6 am alone time—I can almost guarantee it.
Designate “No Screen” Time
On any given day, I wake up, look at my phone, drive to work, look at my computer screen, drive home, look at my tv screen and my phone screen—sometimes at the same time. It’s becoming increasingly important to give our poor eyeballs a rest from glowing screens. That’s why I am also dedicating myself so have designated no screen time for at least thirty minutes every day.
Take A Walking Meeting
Before we talk about how amazing Vitamin D is, let’s always remember to apply sunscreen before hitting the sun. Now that we have that out of the way, the sun is important to catch—whenever you can. In peak summer months in Los Angeles, we are getting around 14 hours of sunlight, so let’s make sure to send some time in her glow. There are a few ways to get some sunlight without completely interrupting your day. One way I like to sneak in some sun time is by taking a few meetings outside. With quarantine, we’ve all been taking virtual meetings, so why not step outside for a change of scenery? I’ve been loving taking my 1:1s meetings or more introductory phone calls outside. It’s a great way to get your blood pumping, fill your Fitbit with a few steps, and get some work done—all in one bundle.
Take That Detour Before Your Day Ends
We have all had the intention of getting a workout in after work—only too feel too tired or worn out once the time comes. But, answer me this—have you ever regretted a workout at the end of a long day? Probably not. So, before you call it a day and start cooking dinner or watching Netflix, get your workout in and make it a non-negotiable before your day is complete. There is simply nothing more de-motivating than seeing your cozy couch. If you want to get that workout in, do it either before work, or right after. Your couch will still be waiting—and you will be glad to have each other after doing 1000 squats.
Building a few, simple habits may seem inconsequential. That couldn’t be further from the truth. By taking small, incremental steps, you will quickly learn how beneficial (and possible) it is to take time for the most important person in your life, you.
