FINDING TIME FOR YOURSELF: AN ESSENTIAL STEP FOR WELL-BEING

Taking care of oneself, despite the chaos of daily life and an often busy schedule, is crucial for physical and mental well-being.

Investing in yourself helps to recharge your energy, improve concentration and manage stress better. It is not only an act of self-compassion, but an effective strategy to face life with greater serenity and productivity.

We often neglect our own needs in favour of those of others, forgetting that time for oneself is not selfishness, but an essential step in maintaining balance and well-being. Recognising this value and making it a priority is the first step towards a more satisfying life. Hence the importance of saying no, a difficult but essential act to protect one's time. Evaluating the demands you consider truly important will help you focus on your own needs.

A full weekly calendar does not mean a lack of time or space. One must include specific moments to do what one loves and feels good about: a walk, a run, a yoga class, simply reading a book. These moments, like meetings, work schedules and family duties, should also be treated as must-do appointments.

The secret is to review your priorities and ask yourself: what is really necessary? Eliminating superfluous activities and delegating less crucial tasks will give you more space to focus on yourself.

During the day, for example, one can turn the commute to work into an opportunity for exercise (if distances permit) or even into a moment of relaxation and information through listening to a podcast. One can also make use of break times and let the wait for an appointment or the five minutes before a meeting become opportunities to relax, do breathing exercises or simply take a moment for oneself.

The secret, however, is always to create a routine that helps you achieve your goals. From setting the alarm clock earlier to exercise for at least 30 minutes to an eating plan to be followed regularly at least five days a week. A few fixed points that with time will become natural and indispensable practices.

All this without forgetting flexibility. Life is unpredictable and you can't always follow your plans. Just accept it without guilt and find other times to catch up.

Making time for yourself is a practice that requires commitment, but the benefits it brings are invaluable. Incorporating personal wellbeing into your routine will help you live more fully and satisfactorily. Just get started. And before you know it, small steps will make a big difference in your life.