Sara’s View of Life with Sara Troy, on air from July 7th

Taking Time for Yourself

I have been away for a few days, taking some much-needed time out. Normally, I stay close to home on weekends because of my grandchildren, and we always find something to do together. But this time they were away camping, which gave me the opportunity to visit my other children and spend time with friends. I left the island, headed over to Vancouver, and enjoyed some precious quality time.

Quality time is something we all need, yet it rarely happens by accident. In our busy world, with endless demands pulling us in every direction, we have to make a conscious choice to create space for it. We need moments that rejuvenate us, fulfill us, and remind us who we are beyond our responsibilities.

Three days a week I host interviews and have deeply meaningful conversations with extraordinary people. These discussions are illuminating, inspiring, and nourishing to my heart, soul, and spirit. On the other days, I am Nana. I am surrounded by grandchildren climbing on me, babies needing attention, and all the joyful chaos that comes with family life. I treasure those moments, but they require a different part of me. Balancing those roles is important, and so is finding time simply to be Sara.

Living with fibromyalgia means my energy is often limited, which makes self-care even more essential. Sometimes taking time for yourself means stepping away from routine and reconnecting with other parts of your life. This weekend was about seeing my son and daughter, spending time with my best friend, and simply being an adult among adults. My son and his wife are building exciting new ventures, and my daughter is constantly busy with work and travel, so every opportunity to be together feels precious.

Recently I spoke about moderation and time management in my show, To Scroll or Not to Scroll. Taking time for yourself is part of that balance. Sometimes you simply recognize that you need a break, a chance to step away, breathe, and do something that restores you. Whether that means visiting loved ones, taking a short trip, or simply spending quiet time alone, it is important to listen to that need.

A few weekends ago, I had the house to myself and a long list of plans. I was going to change curtains, tackle projects, and catch up on everything. Instead, I did very little. It was over thirty degrees outside, and I found myself enjoying what I call a “nothingness day.” I puttered about, did a little here and there, but there was no urgency, no pressure, and no expectation. It was exactly what I needed.

Sometimes we need a day where nothing is required of us. There is always another task waiting, another responsibility calling, another demand on our attention. At some point, we simply have to close the door on all of it and say, “Today is for me.” Whether that means taking yourself out for lunch, reading a book, enjoying a spa day, sitting in nature, or doing absolutely nothing at all, it is time well spent.

We often forget the value of stillness. In generations past, people worked hard, but they also spent time in reflection. They sat with their thoughts, talked with family, looked at the stars, contemplated nature, and reflected on their lives. Today, we fill every spare moment with noise, screens, and distractions. Yet true renewal often comes from quiet reflection.

One of the most powerful words we can learn is “no.” No, I am unavailable this weekend. No, I cannot take on one more commitment right now. No, I need some time for myself. You do not owe anyone a lengthy explanation. Taking time for yourself is not selfish; it is necessary. It is where you rejuvenate, recalibrate, and reconnect with yourself.

You are with yourself every moment of your life, from the day you are born until the day you leave this world. What are you doing to nurture that relationship? Maybe it is a massage, a walk by the ocean, a favorite book, a quiet cup of coffee, or simply a day without expectations. Whatever it is, make room for it.

When we fail to take care of ourselves, burnout eventually follows. We take on too much, say yes too often, and carry more than we were meant to bear. The weight accumulates until exhaustion catches up with us. Taking time for yourself is not a luxury; it is part of maintaining your well-being.

So give yourself permission. Take a deep breath. Step back when needed. Say no when necessary. Create moments of stillness. Make room for joy. Most importantly, remember that caring for yourself is not taking away from others—it is what allows you to show up fully for the people and responsibilities that matter most.

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