This past year, I've learned that taking time for yourself is essential. When you're bombarded with work and feel as if the world is closing in on you, take a deep breath and press pause. During this pause, consider what makes you feel happy and at peace, then go do it.

Packing on your schedule will only make you feel more anxious and stressed than you would accomplishing any of those tasks.

At times it feels as if there aren't enough hours in the day, and that may be true, but with scheduling, anything is possible. The most important task to include before scheduling anything else is a break for "me" time.

My friends are constantly expressing how stressed they are with school/internship work, and the culmination of keeping up with friendships. Fulfilling the need to do well in school and hanging out with friends can sometimes leave no time for you, which can be detrimental. Sure, hanging out with your friends is a good distraction from your work. They make you laugh, smile and just overall make you happy. Hanging out with friends can also be regarded as "me" time so long as it is what you want to do.

Jeffrey Benjamin said it best, "A significant milestone in life is achieved when you learn to be your own best friend." Establishing your own personal "me" time will allow you to experience a positive shift in your life.

According to Happify.com, a British study found that quality "me" time is more important than quantity. So, if you think you need to set aside five-plus hours of your time for yourself, that isn't necessarily true. Find a leisure activity that you enjoy doing and dedicate an hour or two, twice a week, to doing just that.

In an infographic found on Happify.com, psychologists say alone time reboots our brain, helps us unwind, enhances our relationships, gives space for self-discovery, etc. It was interesting to read that studies at the University of Michigan found that married couples are unhappy when there is a lack of "privacy" or "me" time. Establishing a strong need for "me" time now will only benefit you in the long run when it comes to work, relationships and your own sanity.

Start your "me" time today and you will see the positive effect that it has on your life.