I think most of us can confidently declare that we still don't have any free time. Time to devote just to ourselves. Or perhaps we simply need to learn how to find a moment to catch our breath during a busy day? Okay, contrary to appearances, it's long enough to fit everything in. Say STOP and focus on yourself. Answering the work phone or checking email after hours used to be unthinkable. Today, we feel obligated to constantly "stay connected" with others. Not only are we constantly "on call," but we expect the same from others. It's become normal for us to blur the lines between our private and professional lives. One bleeds into the other, and that's probably why it's so hard for us to find a moment for ourselves—to relax and completely disconnect from phones, computers, and other pressing matters.
Rest = laziness?
Try to recall what spending free time looked like in your home. After all, that's where we learn all our habits. Was there time for carefree fun and "wasting" time together? Perhaps in your childhood, you often heard that only work was worthwhile, and that resting was synonymous with idleness, which reflects poorly on us. If we picked up this belief at home, it's no wonder we can't relax without feeling guilty. Relaxation is essential, something that, unfortunately, is abstract to most of us.
Drop everything and come and relax!
First and foremost, establish sacred time . This is the time when you give yourself a moment to rest, and most importantly, protect it with the same determination you use to tackle other matters, such as work. Take care of yourself daily , not only when your body is truly running on fumes! To avoid extreme exhaustion, remember to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep. Sometimes that seems too much. You might feel like 6 hours is enough, but in the long run, your body will start demanding more, so don't underestimate it. Also, remember to eat at least four nutritious meals a day—ideally two hot ones—and at least an hour of outdoor activity. It may seem paradoxical, but you have to be in good shape to start resting. Remember to carefully choose what you feed your body and soul . Check in and ask yourself if what you're doing truly brings you pleasure, joy, and is helping you grow. Relaxation in today's busy times is a true luxury, one that, unfortunately, fewer and fewer of us afford. All we need to do is stop for a moment and focus on ourselves. It seems so simple, yet so rarely done, because... and here begins the long list of things that are more important than ourselves. Say STOP and take care of yourself. You'll be guided through life by yourself, not by work, not by your phone, not by your computer, until the very end.
