As we approach summer, I often have that “change of season” urge to fix something, change something or clean out a closet! I don’t know why but when the season changes, I always itch for a new beginning. For people who may be very busy helping others, it can be hard to find time to do normal things - like just keeping a dentist appointment! But, it is good to remember that we often have more time than we think.
One way to make a fresh start for summer may be to pick a goal – any goal – and start by only doing something toward that goal for 15 minutes a day. I know it seems insignificant, but if you can commit to 15 minutes a day, you may be surprised to find out that you can squeeze in some changes in your lifestyle.
For example, if you want to exercise more but you do not feel like you have time, just decide that you will do simple exercises for 5 minutes before breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can do sit ups, touch your toes, swing your arms, walk briskly around the block – whatever. It doesn’t have to be a new complicated fitness program. Just do something more than usual. There are lots of places online to find mini workouts you can do at the office for example – print some out and just have them nearby.
If food is an issue, maybe spend 15 minutes a day peeling carrots and making other healthy snacks in the morning so you have something besides chips when you need some fuel. Or make a big salad at night for the next day.
If you’re not sure what you would like to do – spend the 15 minutes each day for a week just jotting down ideas with a nice cup of tea. Maybe all you really need is more alone time or more relaxation. Maybe you feel so rushed you do not do nice things for yourself like take a warm bath or read for pleasure. Maybe you just want a more organized kitchen and you can’t imagine finding time for the task – but you may be able to work on a drawer at a time in smaller steps.
Whatever it is you most need – and no matter how busy you are – you can probably squeeze in 15 minutes a day to take care of yourself. Fifteen minutes go by quickly - but it is better than nothing!