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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Kristin says
I plan to do your third suggestion (working out) at least four times a week! Thanks for the giveaway!
Melissa Cunningham says
I’ll try the don’t skimp on your skin
Ann Fantom says
My favorite way to take some me time is to take a hot bath and read a good book
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.
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.
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.
cindy schierl says
Love the gratitude jar!
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.
elizabeth p says
I am going to do yoga everyday.
fran says
working out – I’ve had this resolution before but maybe this year it’ll stick
Cheryl says
I’m going to try 3 Work out.
tat2gurlzrock says
I love the gratitude jar idea. I have never heard of that before!
Patricia says
I would love to start a gratitude jar.
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.
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! 🙂
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.
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!
Tracy Davis says
I do Yoga when I want to take some me time.
Carol Blevins says
I love Aveeno products
Julia Barnes says
I read for “Me” time. It relaxes me and is good for my brain.
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!
robyn paris says
My favorite me time is when i get to take a long hot bath before bed.
Mary Cloud says
I like the idea of setting a goal. I have a couple of goals I want to meet next year.
nickie says
I will try the don’t skimp on your skin
susitravl says
I love the idea in #2. Everyone needs more positive thoughts and thankfulness in their life.
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.
Julie says
I love to read and take a bubble bath for me time.
Gina H. says
#3 Work out.
Elizabeth says
I like taking a bath and doing relaxing self care for my ME time!
Char says
I love to read and eat, thank you so much for the offer!
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!
Kim O says
my favorite me time is taking a bath and reading
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!
Darlene Carbajal says
For me time, I love to pamper myself.
latanya t says
reading more
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!
Steve Weber says
I’ll try the don’t skimp on your skin
Tiffany S says
My favorite way to take me time is just sitting on the couch in my pajamas reading a good book.
Kayla Klontz says
The gratitude ja
Jessica To says
I want to try to work out more.
Wendy R. says
Maybe not work out so much… but I definitely need to get moving more in the new year!
Ashley C says
My goal is to work out more frequently this year!
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!
Virginia Rowell says
I am going to work out more.
Madison Hamilton says
Definitely making a gratitude jar
jennyscheldberg says
My new habit this year I want to stick to getting my 10,000 steps in everyday.
Rhonda Y says
I take ‘me’ time by hanging out with my dog and reading a good book.
l p says
Set a goal. thanks
Susan Hartman says
I am setting a goal to take charge of my life.
Sandy Bonesteel says
I like the idea about setting a goal.
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.
gracefulcoffee says
My favorite way to make me time is to light a candle and read a book.
Rachel says
My favorite way to take me time is to take a bath with a glass of wine.
lauren says
make a new habit… reading my bible everyday
Angela Saver says
I am going to work out 3-5 days per week!
Mandala says
I like the idea of having a gratitude jar. Happy Holidays!
jeepingeos says
The gratitude jar is such a nice idea,
Sandy H says
I just relax and watch my shows on TV
Karen says
My favorite me time, is take a long walk outdoors and enjoy the nature around.
Katerina says
I’ll try to work out more !
Lauren says
I want to work out more this year.
latoya says
My favorite way to take me time is to head to the spa and get a massage or a facial.
adriiss says
i love to listen to music and color. Or just watch movies.
Minam Rukbo says
I will do 2,3 and 4 for sure!!!
Kristi C says
I plan on trying the work out idea. I really need to get in shape.
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!
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. 🙂
Susan Smith says
I love the gratitude jar idea. I set aside me time and go to bed early to read.
Glen Hough says
Skin care is very important
Angela Williams says
Make time for skincare.
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.
Brittney House says
I love making me time by laying in a quiet room while watching a movie.
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.
Crystal F says
I love to take a nice long bath and read. I really need to start doing it more. thank you!
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.
Patricia Wojnar Crowley says
I’m going to try your second suggestion.
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.
Sandy says
I love taking long baths, reading, or going for walks!
Shannon Kirby says
I need to start working out
Lisa says
I would like to try to work out regularly.
Angela Newsome says
My favorite way to spend me time is to go window shopping or take a brisk walk
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
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.
Danielle Taormina says
Have time to myself. Go to the gym, read a book, relax.
cheryl s says
My me time is floating in the pool by myself
Colleen says
Part of my New Year resolution is to add meditation into my daily routine. Just starting with 10 minutes.
Jammie Morey says
My favorite way for ME time is soaking in a nice hot bath with relaxing essential oils.
Angie B says
workout, I’ve already started. I got off track the end of last year and trying to get back on it
Sheila K. says
My favorite way to take ME time is reading … and reading … and reading some more!
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!
Marina says
I will try to take care of myself with dieting
Kristen says
I plan on using my bathroom as a spa and pampering myself with all those lovely aver no products for winter skin!!!
Tyna Nguyen says
This is great. Could use!
Rosanne says
The Gratitude Jar -when we are thankful for what we do have we don’t look for what we don’t have/
joe gersch says
I take me time by meditating
Keri Justice says
Working out daily is my goal! It’s time to take time for myself.
Tiffany Banks says
My favorite way for me time is to relax with a book at night while the kids are asleep
Jen R says
My favorite way to get ‘me time’ is with a bubble bath and glass of wine.
beth shepherd says
My favorite me time is to read a book in the evenings. Thank you
Sara Zielinski says
I will try not to skimp on my skin in the new year.
Penny Snyder says
I would love to try a gratitude jar!!!~
Audrey T says
I like the idea of a gratitude jar. it would help me become a more “half glass full” kind of woman.
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
Lisa Pecora says
I am going to try to make a new habit by eating more home cooked meals.
Elle says
I like to take ME time going for a nice long walk or run with my music.
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!
Amy C says
Of all your great ideas, I’m going to try the gratitude jar!
Stephanie Liske says
My favorite way to have ME time is to pamper myself after i get out of the shower.
Katie K says
getting massages is my favorite way for me time! And thy are a great splurge!
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!
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!
Margaret says
I have a gratitude journal- but I really like the idea of converting it to a JAR! 🙂
deana says
I am going to try the gratitude jar!
Carol says
I’m going to try 3 Work out.
Dagmar M says
My favorite idea for me time is to take a long bath and read a book!
Danielle says
I plan on doing the Work out
Cynthia says
I’m planning on working out and eating better!
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!
Teresa A Thompson says
Daily yoga practice is my number 1.
Teresa Archer says
Taking time for myself coloring and reading.
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!
Charles Hough says
My skin is so dry because of winter….I want this
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.
rusthawk says
My me time includes a pampering routine for my body and hair, something I neglect too often.
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.
susan smoaks says
I like the idea of the gratitude jar. it is important to be thankful and being grateful leads to happiness.
Erica B. says
My favorite me time is taking a nap!
Jana S says
my favorite me time is being in my garden
Samantha says
My favorite way to take ME time is to go get a back massage at the spa!
Francine Anchondo says
I like the gratitude jar.
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.
allison says
I need to lose weight by March so I am dieting and exercising. Thanks so much for the chances to win.
Missy says
I’m setting a goal to be selfish about sleeping.
Karrie Ann says
Setting a goal
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,
Laura B says
I love to take a hot bath to take some ME time!
Donna C. says
I am going to do #3 Work out. I have joined a 12 program at work
Courtney Haas says
My pampering routine involves a hot bath
Janine H says
My fave me time is if I get to have a massage
kim hardy says
I think I will set some goals and se how I do!!
Lesley F says
I like to read a book for some me time
Dorothy Deakyne says
trying to put face and hand cream on a daily basis
Tonya Dreese Flores says
Getting a massage, getting my toes done, hair highlighted. Taking a hot bath.
Jenny Q. says
I enjoy exercising as my me time, but I also love reading a good book with a cup of tea.
deana dietrich says
My fav ME time is to wander the thrift stores or soaking in a tub w/ a good book.
shawna says
I love the gratitude jar idea!
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!
laura588 says
I will try the idea of make a new habit. This is one that I really believe I could keep.
Laurie Emerson
laurie murley says
I love going shoping for my me thime
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.
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.
Patty Hancock says
Definitely the workout tip. I need to do that.
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.
AEKZ2 says
My favorite way to have me time is reading a thriller.
Donna Clifford says
I like the gratitude jar. I have so much in life to be thankful for.
MelissaandKeith Miller says
I like the gratitude jar idea
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 🙂
Tonya Mcminn says
I make me time by taking one day out the month and going to nail salon with girlfriends.
Gabrielly says
Working out at least four times a week.
Breanne says
I like to take a bath.
Lorri says
I love the idea of a gratitude jar…I have been doing yoga every day.
Lorrii says
I have been focusing more on my health trying to exercise more often and doing yoga daily.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Michelle H. says
I am trying to get back into a serious workout routine.
Richard Hicks says
My favorite ME TIME is reading a good book in a quiet room
Sand says
I’m doing the gratitude jar for sure!