Looking out for oneself has a bad rap these days. “How can you be so selfish?” An accusatory statement we use to jab at our significant other or friends for focusing more on themselves than us. But what if this is their trick to winning at life? Let your “me” flag fly and check this out.
1. They Enjoy Deeper Connections
Results from a study at the University of Michigan showed marriages where partners took their “me” time to be a significant factor of happiness. Believe it or not a faltering sex life was less of a cause for failed relationships than each partner having their opportunity to cultivate their own interests (MBG). Emotional availability is improved when they spend time routinely exploring their own mind. After all, they are fascinating people.
2. They Never Leave The House With A Low Battery
Psychologists advocate our use of alone time in order to give our brains the reboot it needs. They are aware of how full their mind battery is at any given time which gives them access to deep thinking, concentration, productivity and problem solving. Not only that they are happier because of it. Sometimes it’s okay to step on the brakes and they know better than anyone (Happify).
3. They Know Calendars Are Their Best Friend
Schedule, schedule, schedule. Without this secret ingredient the “me” time never happens. Quality time for themselves is the most important over quantity and a British study supports this claim (MBG). By making head space for the “me” activity it leads to a greater wellbeing, better work engagement and an improved work-life balance. In todays world of always on electronics that is a breath of fresh air.
4. They Have Self Confidence
Saying “no” is something they have no problem doing because they spend time learning about what it is that truly makes them happy. When we spend time pleasing others it is easy to lose touch with what we want out of life. They are believers in the phrase, “Life is short, so live it.”
5. Their Brains Are More Advanced
Naturally all of this quality “me” time leads to good decisions on what activities to engage in. They invest in good books, learning how to play a musical instrument or group sports. Part of what makes them so powerful as people is that they realize their time doesn’t always have to be spent alone. Human happiness comes from being social with others and grows our brains as a result.
6. They Are Way More Creative
When we are zoomed in on a problem it is hard to see the big picture. “Me” timers are apt to have free space in their minds for possibilities. The creative process is not one to rush and the introverted mind is superb at finding answers to questions most of us, including myself, cannot hack.
7. They Rise 30 Minutes Earlier
Getting up in the morning doesn’t have to be an ordeal for them. They know that even a small head start on the day gets the brain juices flowing earlier and makes room for them to express gratitude through a journal, read a book or start on the news. No matter how busy their schedule is they always seem to get more done than anyone else. Don’t be jealous, try it.
8. They Close Their Door
The office or home environment can get chaotic at times. Alerting others to their focus on a project or creative process will allow the space they need to excel. Ditch the guilt of spending time away from the social bustle to prevent burn out. It makes them better friends, parents, partners and team members.
9. They Don’t Have Trouble Concentrating
Spending more time in the moment is easy when they look out for themselves. On average men enjoy 28 hours of leisure time where women only get around 25 hours. They realize that this time should be spent on high quality activities that they enjoy. When it’s time to get back to work it’s not difficult for them to focus in on what they need to get done because of how centered they are.
10. They Experience Less Guilt
According to research 29% of spouses say they don’t have enough privacy or time for themselves in the relationship. They aren’t afraid to express their feelings about what their status is with those they connect with enabling a new depth to relationships. It’s not uncommon for them to share exciting news like, “I decided I’m going to learn how to play piano!” The positive impact on others from their self confidence gives them a guilt free lifestyle, opening access to a world of “me” (MBG). Are you one of these rare people that enjoy their “me” time? Has it effected your life in a beneficial way? Comment below and share your experiences. Featured photo credit: Ed Gregory via snap-photos.s3.amazonaws.com
