The Power of a “Me” Day

Lessons from my 93 year old Grandmother…

I was visiting my Grandmother on her porch one sunny morning in Minnesota. She laughed softly as she learned about our crazy schedule and the travel our kids do for sports. And then I asked her what she was doing for the weekend. She smiled and said, “Well, it is my “Me Day” tomorrow.”

A “Me Day” for my Grandmother consists of staying in her pajamas, reading books, eating simple meals and not leaving her apartment. She turns off her phone and says with a smile, “everyone knows not to bother me on Saturdays.” What a concept. At 93, living alone in an independent living facility, she incorporates a “Me Day” every week, no questions asked.

My Grandmother is one of the wisest people I know. I need to be intentional about learning more from her. And yet, as I dreamt about my own “Me Day” and then realized a “Me Hour” was probably more realistic, taking her advice, taking time for yourself, is as vital as getting your nutrients. We talk about self-care all the time in the social work field…and yet, sometimes we are the last to take care of ourselves.

A “Me Day.” What a powerful lesson in setting boundaries and taking care of yourself. With the pressures of life, the demands of work, school, sports, expectations from all different directions, and non-stop media at your fingertips…what will you do this week to adopt a little bit of my grandmother’s advice? Athletes…a “Me Day” is just as important for yourself as it is for my Grandmother. It’s okay to put yourself first…even if it is only for a day.