How often do you devote time to yourself ?

Devote-to-yourself

**How Often Do You devote Time to Yourself?**

How often do you really take time for yourself? It seems like such a simple question, yet the answers can be as varied as the people asked. We all wear different hats—partner, sibling, daughter, nurturer, organizer, friend—and the list never seems to end.

But how often do we pause to truly care for ourselves, to fill our own cups so we can show up fully for others when they need us? When was the last time you took a long, luxurious bath, strolled through nature, or simply sat on a bench, soaking in the sounds of birdsong? Have you ever paused to watch a beetle navigating its path along the dirt road? It’s these small, simple moments that bring us peace, joy, and, most importantly, recharge our spirits.

We live in a fast-paced world dominated by technology and screen time, where scrolling seems to happen at warp speed. We flick through feeds, barely registering what we’re passing by or digesting the words beneath those glossy images. I’ve watched countless people rush from one task to the next, trapped in a constant state of busyness. I used to be one of them! In the early days of our relationship, when Verna suggested we share a morning coffee on the patio just to chat, I thought she was out of her mind. How could I possibly take the time for that? Didn’t she see how much I had to do? Back then, it felt perplexing that she thought such a simple moment was normal. It seems like ages ago now, but I vividly remember that frantic energy—the years I spent, from 2004 to 2018, working from dawn until late at night, pouring everything I had into building my business. It was all about chasing success, accumulating more, and proving my worth.

Thankfully, since then I’ve learned the beauty of slowing down and turning inward. These days, my routine includes yoga, writing, walking the dogs, creating art, and cooking. I make it a point to just sit outside and enjoy the symphony of nature. It’s a daily priority for my growth and well-being.

Just the other evening, Verna looked at me with a serious expression and said, “You’re teaching me how to take better care of myself. You have this natural ability to tend to your own needs, and I want to learn that for myself.” Her words struck a chord. It made me realize how often we go through life like busy little ants, constantly on the move but rarely pausing to be still, to truly be present, and to absorb the life unfolding around us. I only began to grasp this concept with clarity in the last two or three years, and there is always room for improvement.

Investing in yourself in this way has immeasurable rewards. For me, a few core practices keep me grounded: prioritizing my physical health through basic exercise like yoga and dog walks, nourishing my body with wholesome foods, listening to interesting and educational content, and spending time outdoors. I cherish doing what I love and surrounding myself with people who lift me up. I treasure those deep conversations with Verna, asking each other every day, “How are you feeling today?” and genuinely listening, being there for one another even when things aren’t perfect.

I’m committed to investing in my long-term health—both physically and mentally. I want to be able to bend down and tie my shoes at 98 years old! When you nurture your body, mind, and soul, you can face life’s challenges with clarity and resilience. It takes dedication and commitment, but the benefits are well worth it.

The best investment you can make is in yourself. When you feel whole, you can fully enjoy life and be present for others.

As I’ve aged, my priorities have shifted. I’m no longer chasing titles or worrying about others’ opinions. Instead, I’m following what ignites my passion and feels right in the moment. Lately, that’s been writing. Next week? Who knows—it could be something entirely different! I love the thrill of not knowing. I’m learning to embrace the present, trusting that the universe will guide me toward evolving into the best version of myself.

Life is a continuous learning journey. Some days flow easily, while others present challenges. Yet when I reflect on those difficult times, I realize each struggle helped me grow. Even the most heartbreaking moments transformed into positives in the long run. At the time, it never feels that way, but looking back, I see they were all integral to my journey. Verna and I even had our wedding rings engraved with the words: “Change the way you look at things” on one ring and “and the things you look at change” on the other. Gradually, we’re both learning what that truly means.

No matter what your life looks like—whether it’s your job, your business, or how you spend your time—there’s always room for presence, and that’s a beautiful gift you can give yourself. Even in our busiest moments, we can carve out little pockets of time to nurture ourselves, even if it’s just a quick five-minute pause. Those brief moments of self-care might seem insignificant, but they hold incredible value. That small investment of time can yield massive returns, allowing you to feel more grounded and refreshed. When you prioritize these moments for yourself, you’ll be amazed at how much better you can handle life’s demands. It’s a simple yet powerful way to honor your well-being amid the chaos.

So, how often do you carve out time for yourself? It’s a question that invites deeper reflection, and the answer might just be the gateway to a more peaceful existence. In our busy lives, it’s all too easy to overlook our own needs, getting swept away in the whirlwind of responsibilities and obligations. Taking a moment to pause and check in with yourself can illuminate just how vital it is to create that space for self-care and renewal. When you make self-care a priority, you not only enhance your own well-being but also cultivate a more authentic and vibrant presence in your interactions with others. Ultimately, it’s about finding that balance that allows you to show up for yourself and those you love in a more meaningful way. I am now off to take five minutes for myself 😊

Blessings on your journey!

Written by: Laresa Perlman

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