I struggle every day to find focus in all of the things that I love and want to share with the world and my community. It can get so frustrating that sometimes I just want to reenact a cinematic table-flip scene.

I have learned that it takes patience to be able to put the work things aside and make some time for yourself, to focus on yourself and what will give you peace of mind at that moment. I know some of you may think of excuses along the lines of “well, I don’t have time for me right now. I have 3 kids to drop off at school and then I have 4 loads of laundry to do before I pick up the night shift at the restaurant…” etc.

I don’t care if it means that you have to wake up an extra 5 minutes early to read a paragraph in a daily meditation book, or listen to a podcast on your way to pick up the kids – you need to make that time for yourself… it’s the only way for you to perform to your best ability whether it‚Äôs at work or at home.

If work needs you, or your kids and family need you, how are you supposed to show up for them if you can’t show up for yourself?

Some things you can do, even with a busy schedule:

• Go for a drive. EVEN IF IT’S AROUND THE BLOCK. Go alone, roll the window down, take in the fresh air, and reset. Sometimes, if I’m feeling extra down or life seems harder than usual, I will think of 5 things I’m grateful for. Automatic pick-me-up. Don’t knock it til’ you try it.
• Pull into a coffee shop while you‚Äôre running your errands, actually walk inside, order a cup of coffee (or water if your budget doesn’t allow for extra spending), and sit down and just people-watch for ten minutes.
• If it gives you more time for you, try ordering your groceries online. You can schedule a pick-up, or if you want to be a little extra‚ you can have them delivered.
• Listen to podcasts in the car (ladies check out Jenna Kutcher, UnF*ck Your Brain, or Rise with Rachel Hollis ‚Äì guys, SnacksDaily is really great, Dean Graziosi is a genius when it comes to daily business and there are novels and other story podcasts available too.
• Read a magazine. Just get lost in it! Sports, Beauty, Education – I like magazines because they’re good for quick-reads. No commitment required.
• Move your body ‚ and just get up and move. Stretch for a few minutes and just get your blood flowing.
• Automate your bills so that you don’t rush to pay them at the last minute. That only adds extra stress and makes you feel like you have even less time in the day.
• Do something that made you happy as a kid. Grab your kid’s crayons and color on a piece of paper, or build something small with their clay or Legos. You’d be surprised by how many parents I hear say they do this…

The majority of the activities above are free. This just goes to show, all you need to do is carve out a little time.