Time is a hot commodity. It vanishes without our permission. There will always be time to eat, work, and sleep. There’s commuting and studying and tucking kids into bed. But how much free time is leftover? And how much of that free time is invested in your well-being? Think about it.

It’s too easy to fill little gaps with make-believe urgent matters and mindless distractions. Just one more email. Just one more article. Just one more scroll through Facebook. Soon our free time evaporates and we’re left playing catch up, scrambling for a minute to catch our breath. Ironically, one of the best ways to manage the chaos is to add something to it: making time for yourself.

It’s addition that leads to subtraction and eventually multiplication.

Add time for yourself. Add joy. Add fun.

Subtract idle time. Subtract stress. Subtract false urgency.

Multiply clarity. Multiply efficiency. Multiply purpose.

So what kind of me-time is worth adding to an already busy life? Just little things. The secret is re-purposing time you already spend making life happen. It is the most sustainable way to care for yourself. Obviously, hitting the studio for an endorphin boost among friends is better than working out alone. It’s social time and personal time in one go. But what else can be done? Here are some ideas.

Slip a little luxury into your morning or evening ritual. Toast the new day sipping exquisite tea or gourmet coffee from a special cup. Treat yourself to deliciously soft pajamas and slippers. Pick up a new book to read in bed.

Make DIY spa days a regular thing. Splurge on a gorgeous pampering product or two. Plan to linger in the bathroom a little longer than usual with a deliciously scented exfoliator or moisturiser before getting dressed.

Plan for an extended commute. The additional time will ease stress and give you time to enjoy your favorite playlist or podcast. Better yet, hang up your keys altogether and take the scenic route. St Andrews is a walker’s paradise. Commute on foot while you enjoy the sprawling beaches and quaint streets. Don’t forget to dress for the weather.

Unplug. Set aside a regular time to be completely cut off from the grid and focus on things that fuel your spirit. Maybe it’s one morning a week. Maybe it’s half an hour each day. Connect with people and connect with yourself. The online world can wait.

Add personal time. Subtract stress. Multiply clarity. Once personal time becomes a habit, the tasks of the day lose their grip and life becomes more enjoyable. You become more effective in both work and play. Take a minute today and figure out what your personal time needs to look like and then make it happen.

What will you choose? Maybe an extra class or a workshop for yourself?

After reading this do you feel like doing something for yourself? Check out our workshops page here https://theviewstudio.co.uk/workshops/