Making time for yourself is arguably one of the most important and at the same time, hardest things to do.

Life is constantly changing and pulling us into so many different directions. Sometimes our to-do list is a mile-long by the time we realize we forgot to add three meals. Whether you’re a student, working a full-time job, raising a family, or all of the above, no matter what your circumstance is, finding time for yourself is always important.

What most people don’t realize is that time for yourself doesn’t mean carving out two hours of your day to take yourself on a picnic and turn your phone off, although that would be awesome, it can be something so minuscule. It can be a shower, a quick soak in the bath, listening to your favorite playlist, or even taking a few selfies during golden hour.

Here are five health benefits of taking time for yourself from LiveHealth Online:

Research shows that people who are comfortable with time alone experience increased happiness and better stress management. Enjoying time alone is linked to better life satisfaction and lower rates of depression.  

Taking intentional time for yourself can also help increase your creative powers. Why? Time without structure lets your mind wander so you can spark new ideas. You need only look at top artists and authors who chose a bit of solitude to help them create masterful work — Thoreau, Georgia O’Keeffe, or Hemingway.

Need another reason to schedule out time for yourself? You can boost your self-esteem by choosing time alone for personal reflection and goal setting. The key here is your intention. Studies show that solitude is good for people if they choose it. If you’re faced with sudden time alone, you may be more likely to perceive yourself as lonely. Your motivation matters.

When you have time to reflect, you can increase your empathy and compassion for others. Instead of spending your time in the usual circle of friends and family, take a little time for yourself. It can broaden your perspective, open your mind up to new ideas and prevent what’s known as “group mentality,” where people are heavily influenced by those who surround them.

Spending time alone can also heighten your emotional intelligence. Why? You have more time to reflect on your feelings and become self-aware. When we’re busy, we can sometimes act or react rashly. Take time for yourself so you can clarify your emotions and determine why you feel the way you do.