All the signs that you need to spend a little more time with yourself
Being alone is one of my biggest hobbies. And no, it's not sad: I and myself just have a great time together. Besides, I also really need it. If I have a week with too many social activities, my body screams for a moment alone. By now, I have also learned to plan it. A friend of mine recently looked at my agenda and then said: ‘I thought you didn't have time? There's still so much open.’ And he was right, but those moments were really meant for myself. Do you doubt whether you spend enough time with yourself? Here are five signs that it's high time for a solid dose of me-time.
1. Nothing sounds fun anymore
When activities no longer seem fun and you procrastinate on enjoyable, creative projects, it's a sign that you need time for yourself. Whether you do that at home or on a date with yourself; see what you need to recharge your batteries and go do that.
2. Sudden cravings
A tendency towards emotional eating can emerge when you're feeling overwhelmed. Recognizing that it's not always about the food but sometimes about taking a break allows me to make more conscious choices. Taking a warm bath or going outside helps a lot. Don't deny yourself all the tasty things; sometimes you really need them.
3. You get overwhelmed quickly by small things
When daily tasks overwhelm you and you see no breathing space, it's also time to take a step back. Life is busy, but it should never be so busy that you can't handle anything at all. Try to eliminate as many things (that can wait) from your agenda as possible and do something for yourself. Don't feel guilty about it: sometimes putting a big cross through your agenda is the best form of self-care.
4. Lashing out at loved ones
It's an age-old principle: when we become too irritable, we lash out at our loved ones. Just think of a child that behaves exemplary at daycare, but when it comes home, immediately has a tantrum. The reason this happens is often because you dare to lash out only at people you truly feel safe with. So while this can be a compliment to your loved ones, it certainly doesn't come across that way when you snap at every little thing. If you notice that you're getting snappy with your mother or your best friend (i.e., the people who care the most about you), then it's time to excuse yourself and come back when you have a bit more space in your head.
5. Longing for solitude
I think we all recognize this: when it all becomes too much, you want to hide in a corner and preferably never come out. At least, that's how it feels at that moment. If you feel the urge to hide under the covers hoping that no one ever finds you again, it's time to create some space in your agenda. Always keep talking to people about this, and you'll find that these feelings will naturally fade away after a while of rest.
Source: Healthline
Image: @kendalljenner
