The Art of Making Time for Yourself

by Carol Giannantonio

Making time for you is an art, and like every art, it requires practice. You deserve to live your life exactly the way you want. Don't let others determine the quality of your life -- take charge of creating a life that matters to you! That starts with making time for you.Many of us feel guilty and selfish making time for ourselves. Surprise my friends it's selfish not to spend time with you.
When you embrace new thinking and take new actions to care for you, the reward is increased happiness and empowerment. We actually become more positive, have more energy, accomplish more and become more generous.

Take time away from your normal routine- spend a day with YOU, take a weekend getaway or a vacation. If you don't take time to rest and rejuvenate, eventually you won't have a self to worry about.

Here are twelve self-nurturing activities that can easily fit into your schedule. The rewards of making time for you outweigh the pitfalls of not making time for you.

1. Write in Your Journal-Start a Gratitude Journal. Write at least 3 things in your journal every day that you are thankful for. This creates a positive energy and gratitude which keeps you motivated, happy and energized. It gives you a clear picture of all the good things you have in life.

2. Dance. Dance, move your body, do your thing, be free, release the stress and have fun! Try this anytime you need a quick attitude change. Shut the blinds. Take off your shoes. Put on your favorite dance music and boogie. You'll emerge ready for anything! Try it - it feels great!

3. Have Lunch with a Friend and a take walk. What could be better than catching up with a friend? Take time to enjoy the people in your life. Enrich, and create friendships. And don't forget the walk. Walking is invigorating.It clarifies your thinking plus its fun and good exercise.

4. Make a "Treasure Map" Collage, "Creative Visualization," "A treasure map is an actual, physical picture of your desired reality". It's so valuable because it forms a clear sharp vision of what you want. It helps you attract and focus energy into your goal. If you really want that raise, or new home, get out your scissors, old magazines, and glue. Create your dream on paper first.
The experience itself is fun. Hang it in a place that you will be sure to see daily.

5. Start planning your next Vacation. Nothing beats browsing the bookstore or library to get ideas for future vacations. Try something new-an African Safari, Sailing the Greek Isles, Rock Climbing, snorkeling, and swimming with the dolphins. Dare to be different!

6. Write a letter to a Friend. When you write by hand, it's special. Take your time, speak from your heart and rediscover forgotten parts of yourself that your faithful friend always remembers.

7. Take up a new activity- Dancing, Singing, Swimming, hiking-do what your love! Involve yourself in a new and different activity. One you enjoy and always wanted to do. Go for it. You will feel free, happy and even a more self confident.

8. Get a Massage. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage. Make time for a ten-minute hot tub or steam bath. It increases the overall relaxation effect. You'll leave relaxed and rejuvenated. I do this at least once a month. When I leave, I feel like I'm floating on air surrounded by tons of positive energy. When I get home, I take a bubble bath with exotic oils, light some candles and play relaxing music. Now, what can be better than that! It's taking care of me and notice the change in your mood and attitude. Awesome!

9. Meditate and BreatheIn the west, meditation can be walking, writing or even dancing. Check out the book, "Meditation Made Easy" by Lorin Roche or the CD by Andrew Wile "Breathing" You'll discover a new sense of peace and balance. It's a great stress buster.

10. Visit an Art Gallery or MuseumTake an hour to wander, soaking in the energy and appreciation of other people's genius. Focus intently on your surroundings and practice mindfulness. It's rewarding, peaceful and adds balance and harmony to your life.

11. ExerciseRegular workouts at the gym, home or office is sound advice for everyone, but especially for executives whose jobs require long periods sitting at a desk. Exercise by doing what you love- walking, running, biking, hiking, swimming, stretching, maybe yoga. They are all healthy ways of making time for you-caring for your mind, body and soul.

12. Get the support you need. Working with a Life Coach or support group is vital when you need extra help. Whether you are trying to quit a bad habit, grieving the loss of a loved one, starting a new career; managing your time better or other personal goals. Support is your key to success!

Enjoy every moment of each experience. Celebrate your success. Now-take out your calendar and schedule some fun for you!

About Carol Giannantonio
Carol is a certified Life, Business, Career and Wellness Coach. Carol's Brain based coaching techniques help clients clarify what's really important to them, set meaingful goals, tap into their energy, take action and quickly achieve the results they are looking for. Carol's passion,wisdom and intuitive nature combined with her motivating and compassionate personality provide clients with an enriching coaching experience. If your ready to get unstuck and get going to where you want to be- Carol's the Coach to get you there. Contact her for a free consult at carolgcoach@aol.com

**************************@@@@@*************************