Part of the reason why it’s so easy for us to be miserable is that we place more importance on empty things than we do on the wellbeing of our souls.

Using the example of your job again, if it makes you unhappy, what are you doing to combat that negativity?

Are you setting time aside to focus on your hobbies and passions, or are you vegetating in front of the TV during your downtime?

We often forget that if we have the energy and willpower to slave away for eight or so hours a day with little reward outside of financial gain, we could easily spend an hour or two a day doing what we actually enjoy.

Again, remember the law of attraction — like attracts like.

If you hate your job, but all you ever do in your waking hours is work, you will be unhappy.

However, if you designate certain days or times just for pure pleasure, you will begin to look forward to those moments rather than dread everything else.

You must decide to take care of yourself spiritually because no one else can.

Now, let's talk about three ways you can take time for yourself.

1. Explore the guilt. When I feel bad or guilty about something, I write it down. I write all my thoughts and feelings on paper so I can really examine what’s going on, instead of letting my mind get carried away. Write it down and ask yourself the following questions:

• How can I feel guilty for taking care of myself?
  
• Why don’t I trust people enough to let them know what I need?
  
• If a friend needed alone time, would I fault them for it or support them?
  

Leave your guilt on paper and do what you need to do to take care of yourself. Remember that you aren’t just serving yourself when you set apart time to recharge, but also everyone around you. By taking care of yourself first, you’ll have more energy and attention for the people you love.

2. Tell people what you need. “I need some time to be alone” doesn’t mean “I don’t want to spend time with you.” It means, “I want to take care of myself so I can enjoy the time we spend together.”

Don’t apologize for asking for what you need. Let people know if you need some time to yourself or would rather stay home while they go out.

Ask what fuels them, too. Let’s support each other in living our best lives even if we don’t always understand or take care in the same way.