Taking Time for Yourself Is Essential, Not Optional

In today’s world, stress doesn’t end when we leave work—it often spills into our personal lives, making it hard to fully unwind. This can affect everything from our relationships and sleep quality to our overall health. Last week, we focused on reducing overwhelm on the job, sharing ways to create a more manageable workday. But equally important is finding ways to decompress once the workday ends so you can recharge and be fully present in your personal life. If you missed last week’s tips on tackling workplace stress, you can read the full post here.

If you want a truly fulfilling life, carving out time for yourself isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s non-negotiable. Yes, we’re all busy. Whether you’re balancing family, career demands, studying, or managing life’s endless tasks, the days can feel packed to the brim. But here’s the truth: if you’re serious about recharging, you will find a way.

It’s easy to look at others and think, “They have more time because they’re not as busy as I am.” But everyone faces unique challenges, from managing multiple jobs or family commitments to pursuing personal goals. We all have priorities, and we all have choices in how we spend our time. And while it’s natural to prioritize others—children, partners, or work—taking even a few minutes each day for yourself helps you recharge and ultimately show up more fully for those who and what matter most.

Here are five small, manageable ways to reclaim that sense of calm and create a personal space for recharging—because making time for yourself is essential for showing up fully, both at work and at home. Think of these as little shifts, not extra tasks, that help bring calm and balance into your day.

1. Transitioning Smoothly from Work to Personal Time

It can be challenging for anyone, not just leaders or executives, to truly “switch off” after a busy workday. If you can’t “switch off,” try simply switching gears. One simple yet effective way to transition from work mode is to create a brief, calming ritual as soon as your day ends. Whether it’s changing into comfortable clothes, taking a short walk, or practicing deep breathing, these small actions signal the end of work and help you fully engage with your personal time.

2. Detaching from Work with an Evening Digital Detox

Disconnecting from work before bed is essential for quality rest and mental clarity, even if it’s just in the last 60 to 90 minutes. As Anne Lamott wisely says, “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes… including you.” This reminds us that true rest is essential for sustaining our energy—not just at work, but in all areas of life. Let this time be a way to recharge fully, reserved for winding down, letting go of the day, and stepping away from screens.

Consider this your “protected time”—a period for relaxing without checking emails, answering calls, or scrolling through social media. A digital detox like this can also improve your quality of sleep, which is crucial if you can’t always get the full 7 to 8 hours. By reducing exposure to stimulating content right before bed, you’re setting yourself up for the most restorative sleep possible. Wearing blue light glasses alone won’t do the trick—fully disconnecting from screens is what truly helps your mind unwind and prepare for quality rest. But it’s important to do what you can—even small changes make a difference. So, if winding down with a show or movie (one that isn’t too exciting or emotional) helps you relax, enjoy it mindfully. While it’s still screen time, it’s often more restful than scrolling through social media or news, creating a calmer space for quality rest.

3. Setting Up Tomorrow, Tonight

The best mornings often begin the night before. Taking a few moments in the evening to set up for the next day can make mornings smoother and reduce stress. The gift of a smooth morning is created the night before, whether it’s by packing your gym bag, setting up breakfast or preparing lunch, or tidying up your living space. Time in the evening dedicated to preparation can help you start the day feeling prepared, grounded, and intentional.

4. Using Time Outside of Work to Reconnect with Yourself

Using your time outside of work to focus on activities that recharge you can make a big difference in managing stress. Whether it’s a workout, a short meditation, or a mindful commute, these intentional moments offer an opportunity to reconnect. Use your commute to set intentions for the day or to unwind with reflection on your way home. Even five minutes of mental space can help you feel more balanced and prepared for whatever’s next.

I often hear resistance here—many say they don’t have time. But that’s rarely the full picture; everyone can carve out time for something they truly want to do. The magic lies in removing distractions (like screen time) and not overloading yourself with work. Sometimes, work may demand extra hours, but if that’s the case all the time, it may be a sign that something needs adjusting.

5. Bringing Purpose and Calm to Everyday Actions

Everyday tasks can be transformed into moments of meaning or even meditation. As Thich Nhat Hanh reminds us, “While washing the dishes, you might be thinking about the tea waiting for you. But if you can't wash the dishes in mindfulness, you won’t be able to drink your tea in mindfulness.” Whether it’s cooking, tidying up, or taking care of small details, try to be fully present in these activities. This helps reduce stress and brings a sense of calm to the rhythm of daily life. These small, mindful actions to reconnect with yourself can also provide a greater sense of purpose, making each day feel more fulfilling.

Making Space for Yourself

Managing stress outside of work isn’t about making huge lifestyle changes; it’s about building small, meaningful habits that recharge and ground you. So why not start tonight? Choose just one of these practices, and let it be your own way to reconnect and manage stress outside of work. You may be surprised by how powerful even a few intentional moments can be in helping you stay present, engaged, and energized—no matter how busy life gets.