Spending time by yourself can make you happier, more productive, and a less stressed member of society. Between your job, your family, and other demands, however, it might seem impossible to find even a few minutes to focus on yourself. But, before you give up on the idea of ever enjoying some peaceful moments alone, a little preparation may help you find the me time you deserve.

Make Your Commute a Commitment to You

Traveling to and from work may be a chore, but it allows you access to some of the best “me time” opportunities. If you drive, put on your favorite music or podcast, rather than tuning into the news or getting frustrated with the inevitable traffic. If you travel on public transportation, resist the urge to catch up only on work or other tasks. Instead, put on your ear buds and sunglasses, close your eyes, and take a few minutes to meditate or find a place of calm amidst the chaos.

Break Things Down to Build Yourself Up

Once you get to work and start your day, divide your daily tasks into more manageable pieces. Try working for 45-minute intervals, each followed by a quick break. Whether you choose to use that found “free time” to listen to a favorite song, text a friend, grab a snack, or do some simple stretches, the goal is to ease any built-up tension and curtail the dreaded burnout. You’ll return to your tasks refreshed and with renewed focus.

When frequent breaks aren’t plausible, you may need to literally schedule “me time” into your calendar. Treat it like a real meeting, and you’ll be less likely to back out. Better yet, make it a recurring appointment and it will eventually become a rejuvenating habit.

Realize That What You Don’t Do Can Matter Most 

There are plenty of opportunities to repurpose time for yourself as you go about your day. First, recognize that it’s OK to say no sometimes, as well as to accept help if you have too much on your plate. Where possible, delegate a task to a co-worker or your spouse, then use that time to read a book, enjoy a peaceful lunch break, or just take a moment to catch your breath. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so it’s important to take care of yourself first.

Be Prepared for Opportunities to Arise

If you spend much of your day running errands in your car, keep a pair of sneakers in your trunk to take advantage of any free time that might pop up for a quick run, or a walk around the neighborhood to clear your head. Also, don’t waste away moments spent waiting in line, as they’re ideal for listening to audiobooks, decompressing with a quick game on your phone, or keeping in touch with loved ones.

When there just aren't any "me time" opportunities in your day, try waking up a few minutes earlier to enjoy a quiet cup of coffee or stress-relieving workout before your daily demands take over. Or, push your bedtime back just a little so you can relax with a good book as you soak in a bubble bath or hot tub. In 20 short minutes, you’ll feel like a new person.

No matter when or where you’re able to squeeze it in, prioritizing "me time" will help you feel rejuvenated, boost your productivity, and set you on the path to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilled self.

Ready to sneak in some quality “me time” in your own backyard sanctuary? Get inspired with these hot tub design ideas.