It may sound like an impossible task, I know. But I’m going to change that thinking of yours by the end of this Me Time Ideas post! Everyone needs a break from the demands of life, and today I’m going to share 5 easy ways to take ME time. Giving yourself permission to slow down and take a few minutes for yourself isn’t selfish.
Just think of your smart phone….the battery drains after all of that texting and use of social media apps, right? So what do you do? You charge it! The same goes for your body and mind. You need a recharge so that you can be a better wife, mom, and friend.
Here’s 5 Me Time Ideas to implement in the New Year
This is a partnered post. All opinions are my own.
5 Me Time Ideas
1 This oldie but goodie is one of my favorite ideas. We started a gratitude jar a few years ago, and it’s been a wonderful blessing for our family. The year goes by so quickly and if you don’t take time to treasure the moments, they will pass by too soon. So grab an empty jar with lid and set a notepad and pen near it. Make an effort to put something positive in it, whether that’s a goal, laugh out loud moment, or blessing big or small, write it down, fold it up and put it inside the jar. Your family can do this too! On NYE or day, sit down with your family and open the jar. Read and relive the special moments that meant so much to your family. It’s an amazing gift, and so simple!
2 Make a new habit. Before getting out of bed, take a moment to send out a positive message to begin your day. Whether it’s a prayer or reading a page from a daily inspirational book. Research has shown that doing this can motivate you and make you a more positive person.
3 Work out. Yes, really. Just hear me out. From experience, I can share that I never worked out, ever, but over a year ago I realized I was grumpy, tired, and had gained 10 lbs. Motherhood can do that to you. It was time for a change. I found an amazing fit camp class and asked a friend to join (having an accountability partner makes it way easier). I can truly say, adding a fitness routine to my weekly calendar has made a world of a difference. Believe it or not, I have MORE energy and sleep better! Do whatever you can fit into your calendar, whether it’s a class once or twice a week, a daily walk around your neighborhood, or a 10 minute morning routine. Set a reminder on your calendar or create an alarm on your phone, so you stick to it. You CAN do this!
4 Set a goal. It can be anything you’d like to accomplish. A DIY project? Take a dance class? Complete an online course? Figure out a plan to work towards that goal. Will it be 3 months, 6 months or a year goal? Then tell someone! That way they can hold you accountable. You will feel ecstatic when you master that goal.
5 Don’t skimp on your skin. It will age you. Clean your face morning and night, Moisturize (my favorite is Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Yogurt Body Wash and Body Yogurt), use Anti-aging serums, and do a Peel once a week. You can spare 5 minutes in your routine, plus you will look and feel better about yourself.
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How will you take time for yourself in the New Year? I challenge you to try these 5 Me Time Ideas and see how it changes you inside and out. Just remember, you deserve it.
Aveeno wants to help YOU take a #MomentForMe by giving 3 lucky My Boys and Their Toys readers a set of their new Aveeno Moisturizing Yogurt Body products!
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Sand says
I’m doing the gratitude jar for sure!
Richard Hicks says
My favorite ME TIME is reading a good book in a quiet room
Michelle H. says
I am trying to get back into a serious workout routine.
Vikki Billings says
Honestly my favorite way to have ME time, is to spend the day in my room, with my tv on some great movies, coloring in my adult coloring book with my wax melts fragrance in the air….oh its so good. So relaxing.
Kristen Patton says
I am setting a goal to be more active and eat and cook healthier! I was so good about it up until October last year, when I moved. The stress of the move led me to old habits that I worked so hard to break in 2016.
Teresa D says
I’m focusing on exercising to find more ME time this year. It is helping a lot, and I feel remarkably better.
Jessica Whitehouse says
My personal time is usually spent showering, reading, coloring, or playing games on my tablet- things that I don’t get time for when the kids are awake.
Amy M says
This year, I will be concentrating on my skin. In the last 6 months, I’ve gone from being the oily me to, well, my dry skinned mother plus a nice case of Psoriasis. Can’t really say I’m happy about it but it does give me a reason to spend some actually quality time on myself.
Lorrii says
I have been focusing more on my health trying to exercise more often and doing yoga daily.
Lorri says
I love the idea of a gratitude jar…I have been doing yoga every day.
Breanne says
I like to take a bath.
Gabrielly says
Working out at least four times a week.
Tonya Mcminn says
I make me time by taking one day out the month and going to nail salon with girlfriends.
Jessica says
My favorite way to take “me time” is to go get pedicures and facials. We live right by a beauty school where services are super cheap, so I have no excuse not to take an hour to go get pampered 🙂
MelissaandKeith Miller says
I like the gratitude jar idea
Donna Clifford says
I like the gratitude jar. I have so much in life to be thankful for.
AEKZ2 says
My favorite way to have me time is reading a thriller.
Janice Gabriel says
I like to close my eyes and empty my mind for a few minutes to distress and take me time. Also, my favorite fitness class gets me motivated and makes me a healthier me.
Patty Hancock says
Definitely the workout tip. I need to do that.
tridingermckee says
There are many ways to get my time in. I go outside and enjoy the sunshine. I go swimming or fishing. And after so much activity, I relax at home and take care of myself and my skin.
Monica Kirkham says
Honestly… my favorite me time activity is going out to the car, cranking the music up and taking a long drive down deserted roads.
laurie murley says
I love going shoping for my me thime
laura588 says
I will try the idea of make a new habit. This is one that I really believe I could keep.
Laurie Emerson
Romeo (@web_romeo) says
During that of me time, I like to take it by spending it with my single-mother. More so, I often love to go out and do volunteer activities and often even do fundraisers!
shawna says
I love the gratitude jar idea!
deana dietrich says
My fav ME time is to wander the thrift stores or soaking in a tub w/ a good book.
Jenny Q. says
I enjoy exercising as my me time, but I also love reading a good book with a cup of tea.
Tonya Dreese Flores says
Getting a massage, getting my toes done, hair highlighted. Taking a hot bath.
Dorothy Deakyne says
trying to put face and hand cream on a daily basis
Lesley F says
I like to read a book for some me time
kim hardy says
I think I will set some goals and se how I do!!
Janine H says
My fave me time is if I get to have a massage
Courtney Haas says
My pampering routine involves a hot bath
Donna C. says
I am going to do #3 Work out. I have joined a 12 program at work
Laura B says
I love to take a hot bath to take some ME time!
Joann F says
I am going with don’t skimp on your skin! It gets very dry if I don’t keep up with it,
Karrie Ann says
Setting a goal
Missy says
I’m setting a goal to be selfish about sleeping.
allison says
I need to lose weight by March so I am dieting and exercising. Thanks so much for the chances to win.
AnnaZed says
We have a Gratitude Jar! Everyone participates. In our house the rule is taht no one reads then papers though, sort of an honor system.
Francine Anchondo says
I like the gratitude jar.
Samantha says
My favorite way to take ME time is to go get a back massage at the spa!
Jana S says
my favorite me time is being in my garden
Erica B. says
My favorite me time is taking a nap!
susan smoaks says
I like the idea of the gratitude jar. it is important to be thankful and being grateful leads to happiness.
Barbara Riffe says
My goal is to get out of the house more. Go back to walking 5 miles a day. The temp here is -10 so no walking for me today.
rusthawk says
My me time includes a pampering routine for my body and hair, something I neglect too often.
Susan Chester says
I will make a new goal to take a few extra minutes to do a proper makeup. I have been letting myself go a bit lately.
Charles Hough says
My skin is so dry because of winter….I want this
Rhonda R says
My favorite thing to do for just me is read! I love to curl up in a chair or my bed and get totally immersed in a great book!
Teresa Archer says
Taking time for myself coloring and reading.
Teresa A Thompson says
Daily yoga practice is my number 1.
Stephanie Larison says
My ME time? Haha, it rarely ever happens, but I love to lie in bed and read a book. Even if it’s just for a few minutes. I definitely could use much more of it!
Cynthia says
I’m planning on working out and eating better!
Danielle says
I plan on doing the Work out
Dagmar M says
My favorite idea for me time is to take a long bath and read a book!
Carol says
I’m going to try 3 Work out.
deana says
I am going to try the gratitude jar!
Margaret says
I have a gratitude journal- but I really like the idea of converting it to a JAR! 🙂
Dana Matthews says
#4 set a goal. I do this for ME already. It gives me something to work toward and I reward myself for my accomplishments. Great suggestions!
Seyma Shabbir says
My favorite way to take me time is to have a fun day with one of my sons. I have 2 sons but I love to spend the day with 1 at a time and do things that we both love. I can focus on that 1 child and we have a blast just goofing off and hanging out. My husband will take the other son and do something special. This way it is less stressful trying to make everyone happy!
Katie K says
getting massages is my favorite way for me time! And thy are a great splurge!
Stephanie Liske says
My favorite way to have ME time is to pamper myself after i get out of the shower.
Amy C says
Of all your great ideas, I’m going to try the gratitude jar!
Sara R says
Most definitely need to get back to working out! Have been slacking lately and it just feels so much better to get out there and stay active!
Elle says
I like to take ME time going for a nice long walk or run with my music.
Lisa Pecora says
I am going to try to make a new habit by eating more home cooked meals.
Yvonne Delgado says
Make a new habit. I told myself I would read my Bible every day and I do look at my verse for the day on my phone. I can do that before getting out of bed
Audrey T says
I like the idea of a gratitude jar. it would help me become a more “half glass full” kind of woman.
Penny Snyder says
I would love to try a gratitude jar!!!~
Sara Zielinski says
I will try not to skimp on my skin in the new year.
beth shepherd says
My favorite me time is to read a book in the evenings. Thank you
Jen R says
My favorite way to get ‘me time’ is with a bubble bath and glass of wine.
Tiffany Banks says
My favorite way for me time is to relax with a book at night while the kids are asleep
Keri Justice says
Working out daily is my goal! It’s time to take time for myself.
joe gersch says
I take me time by meditating
Rosanne says
The Gratitude Jar -when we are thankful for what we do have we don’t look for what we don’t have/
Tyna Nguyen says
This is great. Could use!
Kristen says
I plan on using my bathroom as a spa and pampering myself with all those lovely aver no products for winter skin!!!
Marina says
I will try to take care of myself with dieting
charity lishman says
I usually take me time by reading. I definitely would like to start a good skin care regime as I’m no spring chicken anymore!
Sheila K. says
My favorite way to take ME time is reading … and reading … and reading some more!
Angie B says
workout, I’ve already started. I got off track the end of last year and trying to get back on it
Jammie Morey says
My favorite way for ME time is soaking in a nice hot bath with relaxing essential oils.
Colleen says
Part of my New Year resolution is to add meditation into my daily routine. Just starting with 10 minutes.
cheryl s says
My me time is floating in the pool by myself
Danielle Taormina says
Have time to myself. Go to the gym, read a book, relax.
bianca roman says
i really like the sending out a positive message/vibe before getting out of bed. one of my goals for this year (and every year in the future) is to try and really look/evaluate how i react to things. i don’t sleep well and so i usually end up waking up “mad” and it tends to ruin my morning.
wendi says
my dad bought me a daily read book that i am going to be using this year its to help with anxiety and difficult situations I’m very excited!! and going to try and use the readings to make a positive in my day for me
Angela Newsome says
My favorite way to spend me time is to go window shopping or take a brisk walk
Lisa says
I would like to try to work out regularly.
Shannon Kirby says
I need to start working out
Sandy says
I love taking long baths, reading, or going for walks!
Ruth McIver says
I like to schedule a mini facial at my favorite day spa. I know the services can be pricey but the way I feel afterwards is worth every sacrifice and pinch. Listening to the soothing music, allowing someone to cleanse and correct minor imperfections is such a treat. I almost fall asleep immediately once I get on the table and lie back. I waited late in life to do the little things for me. I want to do more as I get older. I only live once.
Patricia Wojnar Crowley says
I’m going to try your second suggestion.
Christine Labelle says
My favorite me time is after dropping the kids off at school. I like to clean in the morning and the relax with a movie or a good book.
Crystal F says
I love to take a nice long bath and read. I really need to start doing it more. thank you!
Cynthia R says
I like telling a friend or asking them to join you in a fitness routine. My neighbor and I are trying out hot yoga classes we got from a groupon deal. We both need to get in better shape.
Brittney House says
I love making me time by laying in a quiet room while watching a movie.
elizabeth miller says
I really love idea number 2 and I am really going to try to incorporate it. I am going to move my alarm 5 minutes earlier and wake up and try to put a positive vibe in my head for the day versus jumping up, running to get kids up and then jumping right in the shower without breathing.
Angela Williams says
Make time for skincare.
Glen Hough says
Skin care is very important
Susan Smith says
I love the gratitude jar idea. I set aside me time and go to bed early to read.
Erin says
Since I fog the new Aria scale from Fitbit and a create 365 Happy Planner for Christmas – I have already set a goal to find me time by working out. Plus I’ve added running a 5k once a month to that as well for that extra ME time. 🙂
Nicole Martin says
I love the idea of having a gratitude jar! There are so many things we take for granted, and I think that’s a great way to not lose sight of everything we have to be thankful for!
Kristi C says
I plan on trying the work out idea. I really need to get in shape.
Minam Rukbo says
I will do 2,3 and 4 for sure!!!
adriiss says
i love to listen to music and color. Or just watch movies.
latoya says
My favorite way to take me time is to head to the spa and get a massage or a facial.
Lauren says
I want to work out more this year.
Katerina says
I’ll try to work out more !
Karen says
My favorite me time, is take a long walk outdoors and enjoy the nature around.
Sandy H says
I just relax and watch my shows on TV
jeepingeos says
The gratitude jar is such a nice idea,
Mandala says
I like the idea of having a gratitude jar. Happy Holidays!
Angela Saver says
I am going to work out 3-5 days per week!
lauren says
make a new habit… reading my bible everyday
Rachel says
My favorite way to take me time is to take a bath with a glass of wine.
gracefulcoffee says
My favorite way to make me time is to light a candle and read a book.
Stephanie Phelps says
I want to try the Before getting out of bed, take a moment to send out a positive message to begin your day.
Sandy Bonesteel says
I like the idea about setting a goal.
Susan Hartman says
I am setting a goal to take charge of my life.
l p says
Set a goal. thanks
Rhonda Y says
I take ‘me’ time by hanging out with my dog and reading a good book.
jennyscheldberg says
My new habit this year I want to stick to getting my 10,000 steps in everyday.
Madison Hamilton says
Definitely making a gratitude jar
Virginia Rowell says
I am going to work out more.
lissa crane says
The one I would like to try in the New Year is # 5-Don’t skimp on your skin! It’s so easy to take care of everyone else, but my winter skin can’t be ignored!
Ashley C says
My goal is to work out more frequently this year!
Wendy R. says
Maybe not work out so much… but I definitely need to get moving more in the new year!
Jessica To says
I want to try to work out more.
Kayla Klontz says
The gratitude ja
Tiffany S says
My favorite way to take me time is just sitting on the couch in my pajamas reading a good book.
Steve Weber says
I’ll try the don’t skimp on your skin
Debbie F says
I’ll try the set a goal idea in 2017.
I run every morning just because I want to stay healthy and it makes you feel so good for the rest of the day but I’m a slow runner and because of that I haven’t participated in any sponsored runs.
2017 I think will be there year to run at least a 5k!!
thanks!
latanya t says
reading more
Darlene Carbajal says
For me time, I love to pamper myself.
Amanda Lea says
I like make a new habit! I like the idea of instead it being a bad thing incorporating something positive into a habit!
Kim O says
my favorite me time is taking a bath and reading
Doris H says
I love the suggestion of reading a page every morning from the Daily Inspirational Book to start my morning off on a positive note. It is such a simple & fantastic idea!
Char says
I love to read and eat, thank you so much for the offer!
Elizabeth says
I like taking a bath and doing relaxing self care for my ME time!
Gina H. says
#3 Work out.
Julie says
I love to read and take a bubble bath for me time.
kathi bennett says
I am going to take more time for Yoga this year, I started in 2013 and the change in me is wonderful, my skin has benefited a lot.
susitravl says
I love the idea in #2. Everyone needs more positive thoughts and thankfulness in their life.
nickie says
I will try the don’t skimp on your skin
Mary Cloud says
I like the idea of setting a goal. I have a couple of goals I want to meet next year.
robyn paris says
My favorite me time is when i get to take a long hot bath before bed.
PATTY NIEDERT says
I try to do alot of me time. I’ve been grieving the loss of my husband (14 months) and mother (4 months) during the past year and a half and I’m trying to be extremely kind to myself. I try to drink lots of yummy flavored teas, take relaxing baths and go out with friends for fun treats.
Jennifer says
I’m so sorry for your losses Patty! I can’t imagine. I’m so glad to hear you are taking time out for yourself. It sounds like you have some great ideas too!
Julia Barnes says
I read for “Me” time. It relaxes me and is good for my brain.
Carol Blevins says
I love Aveeno products
Tracy Davis says
I do Yoga when I want to take some me time.
janicecrespo says
I actually gave myself 2017 to get my site organized the way I want. I have already taken steps and shared with my daughters what I plan to do!
Debbi Wellenstein says
I like the idea of setting goals. My goal for this year is to cook more from scratch, and make some DIY cleaning products.
Lauryn R says
I love these ideas! I definitely want to work out (Yoga) more often. I used to do it all of the time when I just had one child, but now that I have three I find myself slacking. It makes me feel amazing! 🙂
Monique Rizzo says
I like going for a massage, a haircut and to lunch and a movie all by myself!
Thank you for the chance.
Patricia says
I would love to start a gratitude jar.
tat2gurlzrock says
I love the gratitude jar idea. I have never heard of that before!
Cheryl says
I’m going to try 3 Work out.
fran says
working out – I’ve had this resolution before but maybe this year it’ll stick
elizabeth p says
I am going to do yoga everyday.
Kim Vij says
Your tip #3 is a big focus for me this upcoming year. Reading tip #5 did remind me though that I’m not taking care of my skin nearly as much as I should either. Thanks for sharing these tips Jennifer.
cindy schierl says
Love the gratitude jar!
Lisa L. says
I’ve been meaning to do #5. I don’t take care of my skin on a regular basis but I know I need to. So this year I”m gonna try to be more diligent.
Also I’m getting married in June so I’m gonna take suggestion #4 and set goals in order to get little tasks done.
Margaret Smith says
I’m setting a 3 month goal to loose some weight. My brother is also setting the same goal…so we can both encourage each other.
Jenna Hudson (@HudsonJenna) says
I love the gratitude jar idea. We all sometime need a reminder that everyday may not be a good day, but there is something good in everyday.
Ann Fantom says
My favorite way to take some me time is to take a hot bath and read a good book
Melissa Cunningham says
I’ll try the don’t skimp on your skin
Kristin says
I plan to do your third suggestion (working out) at least four times a week! Thanks for the giveaway!