Need some "me time"?

Life can be hectic, and finding time for yourself isn’t always easy—especially when you’re a nurse or midwife working shifts. 

Long hours, early mornings, late nights, and the high demands of the job can leave you feeling drained. That’s why prioritising self-care is essential for your health, wellbeing, and staying energised in the long term.

So, how can you carve out more time for yourself?

⏰ Schedule time for yourself

Think of ‘me time’ as non-negotiable. Treat it as an essential part of your week, not an optional extra. Schedule an hour once or twice into your week. Use this time to do something that brings you joy, whether that’s exercising, catching up with a friend, reading, or relaxing.

🚧 Set boundaries 

Say ‘no’ sometimes. Check in with yourself regularly to make sure you’re not overcommitting. It’s okay to set boundaries and say no to requests or activities that don’t support your self-care needs. 

🗓️ Plan your roster 

Planning ahead can also help: request your roster in advance so you’re not working too many shifts in a row, and avoid taking on excessive overtime. Practicing how to politely decline extra shifts can be a game-changer.

☕ Take breaks, ask for support

Try to take regular breaks and holidays to recharge—every few months is a good goal. And don’t hesitate to ask friends and family for support; let them know what you need to feel rested and cared for.

It can feel tricky to prioritise yourself when you’re used to putting others first. Our team is here to help you make a practical plan for taking time out, so you can stay healthy, happy, and strong in your role. Contact us on 03 94157551 or email us at admin@nmhp.org.au