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Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes... including you." - Hey there, fellow adventurers of self-discovery! These wise words come from the best-selling author Anne Lamott. Often I feel like I’m running on autopilot, catering to everyone else's needs while neglecting my own. Do I hear a "me too!"
As the weekend approaches, it's time to hit the pause button and indulge in some much-needed "me" time. Sometimes all we need is a little unplugging to rejuvenate our souls.
I used to be heavily reliant on companionship. I always needed someone with me, wherever I went, or the outing just wouldn't feel the same. I envied some of my friends who could enjoy cruises alone, dine out solo, or take leisurely solo strolls in the mall. Can you relate?
Well, take heart, because I can speak from my own experience when I say that we have the power to change and begin to enjoy solo 'me' time even more than time spent with a companion. Allow me to share the steps I took during my transition:
Behavior adjustment #1 - Schedule Your 'Me' Time In. Make your 'me' time a non-negotiable part of your schedule. You are the star of the show! You're the sprinkles on a cupcake! You're the ketchup on fries! Get my point?
If you are anything like me, someone who does not enjoy being alone or doing things solo, then start with small outings. Schedule a stroll in the park or on the beach. As you start to become more comfortable being by yourself, move on to a coffee shop or restaurant. The real game-changer for me was discovering how amazing it is to go to the movies alone. Ahhhh, what a treat! Nowadays, I prefer going to the movies alone. I can choose the movie theater, the film, and even go to a matinee without someone convincing me to attend a 7 pm show. I dislike the feeling of entering the theater when it's still daylight and leaving after dark. The main point is to block out time for yourself and stick to it. Treat it with the same level of importance as any other commitment. I guarantee you that if you haven't seriously and consciously committed to this, you will never know how liberating and addicting 'me' time can be. Try it. You're worth it!"
Behavior adjustment #2 - Pursue A Passion: 'Me' time isn't just about lounging around doing nothing (although that's perfectly acceptable too!). For me, it's also about indulging in activities that bring me joy and fulfillment. Dust off that paintbrush, pick up that book you've been meaning to read, or try out that new recipe you've been eyeing. Use your 'me' time to pursue one of your passions and reignite the spark within. Another option is to try something new and discover a passion.
When I turned 50, I took a good look at my life and realized that I was content. I had achieved everything I had worked for, and I was okay. What I thought would be great turned out to be dull. I started worrying about being bored with life. Then, the pandemic hit. For me, it was life-changing. Stuck in the house, I discovered the real need for 'me' time. In the process, I discovered meditation. Then I started creating flower arrangements with wildflowers I picked while walking my dog. After that, I began making arrangements using silk flowers, and the process of creating and assembling turned into a form of meditation. This whole process gave birth to my brand, Petit Espace - my passion! If it weren't for discovering the need for 'me' time, I probably would have never found a new, intense, lively, and fulfilling passion.
Dear reader, are you ready for the challenge? Do you feel the need to rediscover yourself, pursue a long-held passion, or perhaps explore a new interest? Wherever you may find yourself on this journey, I invite you to pause and reflect on how you'll embrace "me" time. Will you schedule a weekly yoga class, plan a solo camping trip, or simply spend an hour each day unplugged and fully present in the moment? Share your intentions with me in the comments below or email me directly at ceo@mypetitespace.com. Let's embark on this journey of self-discovery together! There's no better time than now to prioritize your well-being and rediscover the joy of simply being.
PS: Do you like this blog? Please share it and check out Mon Espace+, our rapidly growing platform of self-care collaborators. With our community of like-minded individuals, you'll have access to a wealth of resources, support, and inspiration to help you on your journey. And don't forget to check out my corner in the Self-Help Category - Your Upward Journey: It's Easier Than You Think! with my informal guidance, you'll be well on your way to becoming the best version of yourself.
A special thanks to my amazing brother-in-law for allowing me to use one of his exclusive photographs to illustrate this blog! Luv ya Alvaro Donatti. We can start creating these beauties as well!
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Me time means to be well so I can be present and well for others. It only makes sense but it is hard . It takes commitment to go for a walk, sit by the fire, read a book, make a new recipe and have time with myself. I can enjoy my company when I am I. The moment and when worry, fear and pain come for a visit, I can greet them at the door and say you are welcome for a short bit but in busy spending some quality time with me !!!!!! You are all welcome but you only get a wee tiny bit of me and my time .
Thank you, patou