ask dr. read      Idaho Statesman columns      new articles      biography      formal resume      philosophy      services offered      contact dr. read      psychology links      other links      forms      pictures		Make Time For Yourself by James M. Read, Ph.D. I hear it all the time. Too much to do and not enough time to do it. Most of us are convinced that we have less leisure time these days, but is that really the case? In part because it's hard to define it there is no consensus among the experts. Despite the semantic challenges, I'm sure we could all agree that there are significant differences in time use and availability depending upon income, education, profession, family size, social status and various other such demographic variables. But there are also differences that have nothing to do with the often harsh realities of economic survival. Personality, habits, values, and what our parents modeled for us -- these also influence how we deal with, or whether we make sure we have some leisure time. For most of us (living above the poverty line) it's a matter of juggling priorities, improving efficiency and making choices. If we want to have some leisure time, that is. According to one well known recent study we do indeed have slightly more leisure time than in previous decades. At least that was true in 1985. The only exception -- those who actually lost ground -- were found to be fathers and mothers of preschoolers. And we certainly have more leisure time than people did 100 years ago. The forty hour work week, initiated in 1940, helps. So do smaller families and labor-saving home appliances. I think having time to play and really enjoy it is good for us -- both psychologically and physically. Psychoneuroimmunology, remember that tongue twister? Fun and games help tune-up your immune system! So to get more of this potentially powerful elixir (free time pleasantly enjoyed) take control of your life! Sounds like snake oil, but really -- look at your week and analyze how you use your time. Write it down. Make choices. Even if you can only grab a few more minutes to do what you want, having a sense of control about it makes a difference. Carve out a few sacred "free time" hours every week. Look forward to them. Use them. Do what YOU want, and savor it. It's good for you! James M. Read, Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist  Originally published in The Idaho Stateman newspaper (Boise, Idaho) April 29, 1993 For more information, or to contact the author (that's me!), write to James M. Read, Ph.D., jread@jread.com