We all live busy lives, and today it seems as though we need to be constantly doing something every minute of everyday. If we are not actively putting our time and energy into something, it is considered time wasted. Making time for yourself is just as important as making time for all other aspects of your life. Your mental health depends on it, and its something you should put first and foremost.

Simply being able to enjoy your own company is important for personal growth and happiness. If you do not make time for yourself, the psychological effects can harm you in numerous ways. As human beings, we need time alone in order to reflect and properly check our state of mental health. Improved moods, being able to focus more clearly, a positive outlook on life, and a better understanding of one's self are all positive effects of having a little “me time” for yourself. This is when you can truly reflect and be who you are. Being surrounded by people is great, but everyone needs a little down time. It is okay to put yourself before anyone else. You should not feel obligated to put the needs of others before your own. Sacrificing what you truly need or want results in low self esteem and resentment.

Your friends and family will benefit from you making a little down time for yourself in the future, by being able to give them the best version of yourself. Do not think of it as limiting time with others, but instead view it as making sure the time you do spend with them is the best time you can offer. Life is a crazy jumble of events that require an immense amount of time and energy. It is important to fill your own cup before filling someone else's. We all have priorities in life that demand our attention, but taking a day off every once in a while can be more than beneficial.

I have experienced this first hand. Being a busy college student is all about commitment and hard work. If I feel run down and burned out, I make sure to decompress and relax with just myself. This has helped me to succeed and become the best person I can be. By learning about myself and the way I work, I now have a better understanding of how to handle my emotions, different situations, and stressful events. I am grateful for my “me time” and will continue to implant it into my own life.