Do you wish you could return to a time when you weren’t doing as much as you are now? The days when life was simpler, and it seemed like you had fewer responsibilities. Maybe you miss being cared for as a child because attempting to prioritise our adult responsibilities can become overwhelming. We have no time to breathe between raising children, caring for elderly parents, working, etc. But we will eventually crash and burn if we don’t slow down. So, let’s look at how we can better manage our lives.

1. Balance your screen time.

In a world of advanced technology, it seems that the minute we wake up, we first check our phone messages, read our emails, or go on social media. Yes, many jobs require constant contact, and it’s one of the most extensive means of communication. Still, what happens when it’s unnecessary on your off or down days?

Of course, there is nothing wrong with taking some downtime on your screen. Still, staying in front of it can rob us of an entire day or prevent us from doing something that might have been more meaningful. So, one suggestion is to set your alarm and allow yourself maybe twenty minutes to a half hour of screen time in one sitting. Once that timer goes off, remove yourself from the distraction, and allow yourself time to do other things. For example, read a book, work on a hobby, or sit on your deck and take in the day. It’s about doing something you enjoy that will also distract you from staying stuck on your electronics.

Remember, there is nothing wrong with checking your phone if you’re waiting for an important message or want to go back on it after you’ve had some productive time. It’s when you can’t just leave it and walk away is the problem. Therefore, it’s all about balance.

2. Spend time with loved ones.

Do you remember how devastating it was when the pandemic hit, and you couldn’t visit family or friends? Yet, many families within the home began doing more things together, right down to parents and their teens. Fortunately, many families have stayed close to one another since then, while others have returned to the way it was pre-COVID. So, this is a time to remind ourselves how precious life was then and still is.

If it has been a while, why not visit a friend or family member? Or how about doing fun activities with your family or pet family? Perhaps you can play in the park, go for a walk, or sit by the water. Or you can do indoor activities like baking with the kids, playing board games, and making arts and crafts. You’d be surprised how using your imagination can be fun, keep your mind busy, and not to mention therapeutic.

3. Get involved in the community.

Nowadays, we spend less time outdoors and socialising. However, community involvement can be a great way to connect. You can build new relationships and connect with others of mutual interest. So, how about taking a painting or sewing class, joining a reading book club, or going on a group walk?

Volunteering is another excellent way to involve yourself in the community. And knowing that you are making a difference can be a rewarding experience and benefit your mental health. Examples can include volunteering at a farm to care for their animals or crops. Or you can help at a food pantry or a hospital. Plus, if you have children, why not get them involved? It’s a great way to teach them kindness, compassion, and empathy.

4. Move your body.

You’ve probably heard a million times how good exercise is for you. And it can be pretty sickening to hear, especially when it doesn’t come naturally for everyone. It can make it even more difficult for people with depression, anxiety, or physical limitations. But activity not only benefits our physical health but also our mental health.

Exercise is so good for the body and brain because it releases endorphins (happy glands) that cause our energy to increase and depression and anxiety to decrease. So, it helps both your physical and mental health. Plus, you don’t have to do anything strenuous to reap benefits. You can walk, bike, swim, or do yard work.

In addition, exercising doesn’t have to be limited to the outdoors. If you prefer your home gym, a workout video, or dancing with your kids in the kitchen, go for it. Do whatever works best for you.

5. Take time for yourself.

Why do we prefer or feel obligated to do for others but not ourselves? Of course, wanting to help others is a noble quality, but then you must ask yourself why don’t you think you deserve the same. Haven’t you done your fair share between making your employer happy, being a stay-at-home parent, or helping a friend? But we must take care of ourselves to remain healthy.  

Yes, there is minimal time in a day. Still, whether you have ten minutes free or an hour, take that time to do something that says it’s all about you. And don’t mistake doing something for yourself as selfishness but rather self-preservation. So, enjoy that cup of tea, take a lavender bath, or watch a good TV series. Or try getting up a little earlier than the family and enjoy the quiet time, meditate, or do some stretches.

6. Practice Saying No

It’s one thing to help others, but another to put yourself out, especially if some take you for granted. For instance, bringing your neighbor’s child to school who attends the same as your child is one thing. However, if a friend repeatedly asks you to drop off their child who’s further out, that is something different.

Saying no is not a selfish act. And continually doing for others out of feeling guilty or them guilting you won’t make you feel good about yourself. In fact, being assertive and letting go of guilt increases one’s self-esteem.

7. Join a support group.

We all need someone to vent to. However, sometimes we don’t get the support we need at home or feel uncomfortable discussing our issues with them. Or perhaps we need to get away from our household stressors. Therefore, attending support groups can be beneficial. Just having someone who will listen without judgement can take the weight of the world off your shoulders. One such place for support is Barty’s Adventures. They hold special events and adventures to help men feel better about themselves by keeping active, thus improving mental health. Barty – We Are A Mental Health Initiative.

You Can Take Your Life Back

It’s difficult to put the many responsibilities down and tell yourself you need a time-out from everything. But ask yourself if constantly being on the go rather than taking some time for yourself will matter in five years or fifty.

Don’t forget that life comes and goes all too quickly. Next thing you know, your children are grown, and you’ve retired. So, the time for prioritising your life is now. That way, you can live the rest of your life to the fullest. Besides, don’t you think you deserve that?

Why Not Try Online Therapy?

Hopefully, these points could give some comfort, but sometimes just reading quotes isn’t enough. Online therapy can be a great option if you or a loved one is looking for more support.

Therapy through BetterHelp.com/Barty can be more affordable than traditional therapy and allows many options to communicate with your therapist from the comfort of your home. Most importantly, remember that it is okay not to be okay, and you are no less of a human for feeling your emotions and being vulnerable.

To receive 25% off your first month, head to BetterHelp.com/Barty

Feel free to drop by if you’d like to chat and just say, ‘Hey Barty,’ in strict confidence, and you can be anonymous if you wish. Or do not hesitate to leave a comment below.