Why “I Don’t Have Time for Myself” Feels So True—And How to Reclaim It
Have you ever caught yourself saying, "I don’t have any time for myself"? If you’re like me, a working mom juggling career, kids, and a never-ending list of to-dos, it can feel like this belief is an undeniable fact. I used to say it all the time, especially during the days when my schedule was packed to the brim with patient appointments, kid pickups, and trying to squeeze in household chores before collapsing into bed.
The truth is, the evidence is everywhere. Our calendars are overflowing, the mental load is heavy, and we’re constantly on the go. It’s easy to think that we simply don’t have the time. But here’s the thing I realized: the way we think about time can create a reality where we never have enough of it. This belief that "I don’t have time" is more than just a statement—it's a mindset that’s quietly taking our power away.
Why It Feels So True
The belief that we don’t have time feels real because of the evidence. We see our packed schedules, the constant demands of work and home, and feel there’s no space left for ourselves. But what if that’s only half the story?
When we say, "I don’t have time," it becomes our default narrative. Our brains go into autopilot, looking for ways to prove this belief true—whether it’s adding one more task to the to-do list, saying yes to commitments we don’t have energy for, or sacrificing self-care for productivity. We unknowingly feed into the belief and reinforce the cycle of scarcity around time.
Breaking Free from Time Scarcity: How to Reclaim Your Power
Here’s the empowering truth: you have more control over your time than you think. Shifting from "I don’t have time" to "I choose how I spend my time" can completely transform how you approach your day.
Here are some actionable steps that helped me—and can help you—reclaim time for yourself:
Shift Your Mindset: Start questioning the automatic belief that you don’t have time. When you catch yourself saying it, pause and ask, "Is that true?" You’ll often find that you can create pockets of time, even if they’re small.
Set Boundaries and Prioritize: Not everything has to get done today. Identify your non-negotiables for the day and let go of what isn’t essential. You don’t have to be everything to everyone at all times.
Practice Time Blocking: Instead of letting your day control you, try time blocking specific periods for work, rest, and self-care. Even setting aside just 15-20 minutes for yourself can make a big difference.
Release Guilt Around Self-Care: We often feel guilty for taking time for ourselves, thinking it’s selfish. But self-care is essential for showing up as the best version of yourself, for both your family and work.
Say "No" More Often: Your time is valuable, and it’s okay to say no to things that don’t align with your priorities. Remember, every time you say yes to something, you’re saying no to something else—so make sure it’s worth it.
The Power of Choice
Imagine this: instead of feeling like time is slipping through your fingers, you choose how you want to spend it. You decide what’s important and let go of the rest. That’s the power of shifting your mindset around time scarcity. It doesn’t mean your schedule will magically become free and clear—but you’ll no longer feel powerless over it.
I’ve experienced this shift firsthand. I started to view my time differently and began intentionally carving out moments for me. Whether it’s a quick morning walk, journaling, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of coffee, these small acts of self-care have been a game-changer for me. And the best part? I didn’t have to change my entire schedule—just the way I approached it.
Ready to Reclaim Your Time?
If this resonates with you and you’re ready to shift your relationship with time, I invite you to take the next step:
Book a Free Consult Call: Let’s chat about how you can reclaim your time and energy, and build a life that feels aligned with your values and priorities. Schedule your call here.
Join the Vibrant Humans Facebook Group: Surround yourself with like-minded women who are also on a journey to reclaim their time and live more vibrant, balanced lives. Join here.
Explore 1:1 Coaching: Ready for personalized support in transforming your time management and mindset? Learn more about my coaching program and how it can help you create lasting change. Learn more here.
Check Out the Monthly Membership: Get access to exclusive resources, a supportive community, and practical tools designed to help you prioritize your well-being and reclaim your time. Join here.
Time is one of our most precious resources, and it’s time to reclaim it. Let’s move beyond the belief that we don’t have time for ourselves and step into a mindset where we are in control of how we spend it. You deserve it.
