Finding activities to buy time for yourself

When you care for someone - whether it’s a child, a partner, or a family member with extra needs - it’s easy to forget that you need time too. The hours slip by, and the small moments that belong to you seem impossible to find. 

One thing I’ve learned is that “buying time for yourself” doesn’t have to mean big, complicated changes. Sometimes it’s just carving out small pockets in the day. Maybe it’s a walk while your loved one is engaged in an activity they enjoy, a few minutes of reading while someone else cooks dinner, or listening to music while you do chores together. 

These moments aren’t selfish. They’re survival. They recharge you, even in tiny doses, so you can be present without feeling completely drained. Finding ways to weave them into everyday life takes creativity - and patience with yourself. 

It could be setting up an activity they can do independently for a short while, asking a friend or family member to step in for a few minutes, or exploring community programs that give both of you a little breathing space. Even small adjustments make a difference. 

The key is to notice and honour your own needs. Time for yourself isn’t extra; it’s essential. And when you manage to find those moments, they ripple out - helping both you and the people you care for feel calmer, happier, and a little more human. 

Even a few minutes can make a big difference. 

Lara Marie  
Co-Founder lunor.life