It's so easy to become absorbed in your school or job. With school, you have to worry about class, assignments, tests and homework. Then, if you throw a job on top of that, you have to worry more about these things because you have less time, and you have to be great at balancing your priorities. Even if you aren't in school, you still have to balance priorities: children, laundry, housework, grocery shopping, taking care of others, etc. You just go through the motions each day. You feel like you're stuck in a rut, but you know what? You don't have to be stuck. You just have to know when to back away and say, "Okay, I need a break." Yes, you may have a test in a few days or you really do need to wash your clothes. It's okay. If you keep thinking and worrying about future things you need to do, you're going to cause yourself to have a mental breakdown, and wear yourself out. You can put those things aside for a little while (not forever) and do activities you enjoy.

Sometimes it's a little hard to remember this. I know I have trouble taking time for just myself, but when I actually do, it's such a huge relief. I feel refreshed and like a brand new person. I know what you're thinking, "Yeah, right. I don't know what I would do even if I had the time."

Here's what you can do. For starters, find out what you actually enjoy. Do some self exploration. Since starting occupational therapy assistant school, it's been emphasized over and over how important it is for us to be aware of ourselves. We can't function to our full potential if we aren't aware of ourselves, and address our needs and wants. You need to take time to think about what you enjoy, and address your hopes, dreams, and activities you enjoy. After that you may decide to take up a new hobby, or start doing one you haven't done in awhile. My mom gave me a sewing machine for Christmas because I wanted to start sewing like my grandmother. It's so rewarding and so much fun. I haven't had a chance to make anything lately, but I think I'll take my own advice and do it soon. If you're not crafty, maybe you can just take time out of your day to go walking, try new recipes or learn how to play an instrument. Coloring books are pretty great, too. Go out with your friends that you haven't seen lately because you've been so busy. You may not realize it, but time out with friends is therapeutic no matter what you're doing or how long you're out. I've learned that recently myself, since my boyfriend has been away at boot camp. I went to the mall with two of our friends for just an hour or two while they shopped. All I bought that entire time was pumpkin flavored Oreo's, but you know what? It felt great just to be in their presence.

Stop just going through the motions and start living your life!