How to Enjoy Downtime

Before you start enjoying your downtime, ask yourself a few questions about what you're expecting to get out of your downtime. Jot down a few downtime options so you have a good idea of what you want to accomplish and how much time to dedicate to each activity. Only write down one to four items so that you won't feel overwhelmed and you'll only spend a little bit of time coming up with ideas. Schedule the downtime. Many people avoid downtime because they haven't scheduled it into their busy lives. Yet, quiet or non-work/chore related time is essential because it gives you the space to reflect on your life, make plans and relive the best of your life through memories. Having a due date and time for taking downtime scheduled into your diary will help you get the most out of your downtime. Say no. Say no to the extra pile of work, the additional work hours, the yet-one-more chore. These things aren't going anywhere and you need to take a break. Decline to keep going with or taking on anything that drains you. Remind yourself that you are in charge of your life and that it is okay to say no to other people sometimes, so that you can make room for you. You will feel liberated, which in itself is a very enjoyable and restoring feeling.

Belinda