It's easy for us to get so caught up in our busy lives that we forget to take time for ourselves. This is unfortunate, as taking a short break to indulge a personal pleasure or to simply have some quiet time alone, helps to refresh our spirit, mood, and perspective. Not to mention helping to keep our sanity.

I'm not suggesting you go nuts and book a trip for yourself to Paris, but rather make time each day to pamper yourself. This could be as simple as taking 30 minutes each day to read a book or to spend on a neglected hobby. It's not so much what you do that's important, it's that you're taking time out just for yourself — doing something you enjoy and that helps take your mind off your commitments, problems and obligations.

Personally, I recently took advantage of the spring weather and spent a few minutes just laying in the grass watching the clouds and listening to the birds in the trees. It made me think back to when I was a child — staring up at the clouds on warm summer days, finding pirate ships, dragons and faces in the passing clouds.

It's amazing the peace that can be found in a few minutes of tranquil reflection. We all need to take time out each day to re-energize our minds and spirits. I encourage all of you to carve out a few minutes of "me time," each and every day — you deserve it. And that trip to Paris... well, maybe someday.