As we grow older, life keeps filling up with endless things to do. Before you realise it, a week passes — then a month, and in the blink of an eye, another year is gone.
You start to feel out of breath from everything going on. Even when you try to rest, a little voice in your head says, “Everyone else is working hard — how can you take a break?”
And so, when friends invite you out, you open your calendar and unknowingly fill every empty day that isn’t a workday.
Below, I’d like to share a few small tips on how to make time for yourself — to slow down and give yourself the rest you truly need.
Try to keep every Sunday free — plan nothing at all
I know not everyone has weekends off. If you work on a rotating schedule, try to keep the day before work completely free. Don’t make social plans or appointments — whenever you’re with others, part of your attention always goes to them (even if you don’t notice it). You truly need some personal time to rest and recharge.
If you really must do something that day, split it into two parts — and let at least one part be just for you, to relax and enjoy life.
Book one weekend each month just for yourself
I learned this idea from a Q&A shared by the Google Design Team. They often have endless meetings and discussions to schedule, so one member said that whenever he needs quiet time to think and focus, he creates a fake “important-sounding meeting” on his calendar. When others see it, they avoid booking that slot — giving him a block of uninterrupted time to work deeply.
I loved this method and kept it in mind. Sometimes, I also book a “personal weekend” on my own calendar — staying home the whole time. On Saturday, I handle my personal tasks (like writing articles), and on Sunday, I just relax and enjoy a lazy day with my cat.
Plan a solo trip every year
Honestly, I didn’t manage to do that last year — I was so busy that travelling alone stayed only as an unchecked item on my travel wish list.
I really miss the year before, when I went to Tainan alone and spent a quiet moment soaking in a Hinoki wooden bathtub inside a charming Japanese-style old house.
I hope I can plan a solo trip this year, though I haven’t decided where to go yet. I’ve browsed many travel and booking sites lately, but nothing has caught my eye — and that’s okay.
You can start small. If travelling far feels scary or tiring, try a one-day trip in your own city instead — go hiking, spend an afternoon in your favourite café, or book an hour-long massage. All of these count as beautiful solo journeys too!
We all deserve our own moments of calm
Try to let go of the anxious version of yourself and give that part of you some comfort. Who knows — you might even find new inspiration for life along the way.
Cover Photo / Samantha Gades on Unsplash
Cover Art Design / Yuuha
Translator / ChatGPT GPT-5
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