Because your well-being is not selfish—it’s sacred, it’s a divine calling.
Hi friend,
How are you today? This week, I am in Congress learning so much that it feels like an academic marathon. The upside is seeing colleagues from all over the world. I love being a psychiatrist; being able to offer comfort and healing at the most desperate times of human existence is a vocation.
I am learning more about vocation as well at Heaven’s Gate Academy, so much generosity of spirit to give time and resources to teach others. God bless the organizers. God has children, sha.
Speaking of God’s children, are you one of them? If they say oya ooooooo, everybody follow the person your are most like in your thoughts and actions….. where will you go, my dear paddy? Jesus is the way, the only one. We must focus on him, especially in these times, lest we run the risk of breaking down from over-dependence on our own strength.
Let’s talk about something we all struggle with but deeply need: Me Time.
If the thought of taking time for yourself feels indulgent—or worse, selfish—you’re not alone. Many of us have been conditioned to place our worth in how much we do for others. We tie our value to productivity, service, sacrifice, or always being available.
But here’s the truth: You can’t pour from an empty cup.
When you consistently show up for everyone else while neglecting yourself, burnout isn’t a matter of “if”—it’s “when.” So, how do you create space for yourself, honor your needs, and care for your mental and emotional health without guilt?
Let’s break it down.
“Me Time” Matters
Your personal time isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity, especially if you are a hard worker. It’s how you reset, recharge, and reconnect with who you truly are outside your roles, responsibilities, and relationships.
Here’s what healthy “me time” can do:
- Lower stress and anxiety
- Boost creativity and focus
- Improve emotional regulation
- Prevent burnout and compassion fatigue
- Deepen your self-awareness and confidence
- Improve professional and personal relationships
- Increases the quality of decisions made
- Overall improved physical and mental health
- Longer life expectancy
And guess what? When you’re well, everyone around you benefits.
Where the guilt comes from
Let’s name the guilt before we replace it. We tell ourselves all sorts of misguided truths about our reason for not respecting ourselves. That’s what not caring for Yourself is: a lack of respect for Yourself. You won’t do what you do to yourself to anyone else
- “People need me.”
True, but you’re not the solution to everyone’s problems. - “I don’t have time.”
We make time for what we value. Even 10 minutes counts. - “It feels selfish.”
Caring for yourself enables you to be more present for others. - “They’ll think I’m lazy.”
Rest is not laziness. It’s resilience in motion.
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How to Prioritize “Me Time” Guilt-Free
1. Redefine What ‘Selfish’ Means
Start with this truth: Meeting your own needs is not neglecting others.
You are a person too, worthy of care, kindness, and boundaries. Think of it as stewardship: the better you care for yourself, the more sustainably you can care for your people and your purpose.
2. Schedule It Like a Meeting
If you don’t plan it, it won’t happen.
Add your “me time” to your calendar like you would a work meeting. Block it out and treat it as non-negotiable. Even 15-30 minutes of intentional quiet can be powerful.
Try: “Wellness Wednesdays” or “Silent Sundays” as mini rituals of stillness.
3. Start Small and Simple
You don’t need a full spa day or a vacation to honor your needs.
- Read a chapter of a book
- Take a solo walk or dance to music
- Journal in the morning
- Pray, meditate, or just lie down
- Drink tea outside, alone
The key is intention, not duration or extravagance.
4. Set Boundaries Around Your Time
Communicate with love but firmness: “I’m unavailable right now, I’ll respond later.”
The world won’t collapse if you take 30 minutes off the grid. In fact, you’ll return more grounded.
Boundaries preserve your peace and teach others how to respect your energy.
5. Tune Out the Noise (Literally)
Put your phone on silent. Log off. Let the notifications wait.
Reclaim your brain space from the constant buzzing and give your nervous system a break. Silence is deeply healing.
6. Reflect Without Shame
Notice when guilt creeps in and gently ask:
- Why do I feel bad about this?
- Who taught me that my needs are less important?
- What would I say to a friend in this moment?
Shame thrives in silence. Awareness is the first step to freedom.
Ideas for “Me Time” That Actually Restore You
- A slow morning with no agenda
- Listening to music with your eyes closed
- An hour at a museum or quiet café
- Sitting in nature or on your balcony with a journal
- A solo date to the cinema or your favorite restaurant
- Coloring, baking, crafting, gardening
- Napping (yes, it counts!)
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Final Thoughts: You Deserve This
Friend, you don’t need to earn rest.
You don’t have to explain your need for space.
You don’t have to wait until you’re exhausted to pause.
You are allowed to rest, play, breathe, and just be.
Make “me time” a lifestyle, not a last resort.
Not because you’re selfish, but because you’re sacred.
You matter, not just because of what you do for others, but because you exist.
What’s one way you’ll prioritize YOU this week?
Comment below or share this post with a friend who needs the reminder.
Until next time, stay authentic.
Stay resilient, and continue to honour your needs.
Live wholeheartedly,
Amaka
