The One-Hour Reset

It’s been a while since I last wrote an article, and coming back to it feels oddly refreshing - just like taking a moment to unwind after a long day. That’s exactly what I want to talk about today: the importance of dedicating at least one hour to yourself amidst the chaos of work and personal responsibilities.

Have you ever noticed how much time we spend juggling tasks, meeting deadlines, and managing expectations? We’re constantly in motion - both mentally and physically - giving so much of ourselves to work, people, and things around us. Yet, how often do we pause to give something back to ourselves?

Taking one hour just for yourself might sound like a luxury when your day’s packed to the brim, but it’s honestly more of a necessity. It’s about giving your mind and body the breather they desperately need. Think of it as hitting the reset button - not to escape reality but to come back to it feeling more refreshed and ready to take on whatever comes next. It doesn’t have to be fancy or elaborate. It’s just that one hour where you do something that’s yours - something that doesn’t demand anything from you but gives you a sense of relief and a little slice of calm.

A stitch in time saves nine, but an hour for yourself saves your mind.

For me, that pause comes from playing badminton. I’ve been at it for about 2-3 years now, and no matter how my day unfolds, I’m on the court between 8-9 pm every day during my workweek. It’s become a non-negotiable ritual - a chance to unwind, release stress, and recharge. It’s not just about fitness (of course, staying agile is a great perk); it’s about creating space where I don’t owe anyone anything. It’s my time. Just me, my thoughts, my energy.

Honestly, I’ve never been a gym person. The excitement of a new gym subscription might last three months, but my attendance rarely stretches beyond three weeks. One full week without missing a workout feels like a massive achievement. But badminton? It’s different. It’s my anchor. No matter how hectic the day gets or how drained I feel, I show up at the court. It lets me rant, unwind, and most importantly, stay grounded. It’s the one hour that truly belongs to me.

This year, 2025, hasn’t been the kindest to me and my family when it comes to health. Yet, through all the chaos, I’ve held onto my badminton routine. That one hour each day keeps me steady, reminding me to stay present, hopeful, and mindful, despite whatever else is going on.

Taking that time for yourself doesn’t have to be about fitness or sports. It could be reading a book, walking in the park, painting, or just listening to your favorite playlist. The point is to have something that lets you disconnect from obligations and reconnect with yourself. It’s not an escape from reality - it’s a way to reframe and refresh your mind, one day at a time.

An hour to reset, a lifetime to benefit.

Funny how I say all this while nursing my first badminton injury in three years. Just recently, I found myself down with a severe muscle spasm (well, technically around the right serratus anterior muscle) - a humbling reminder that even the things we love can sometimes hit back (literally!). But even as I rest and recover, I realize that the routine I’ve built around this one hour has become more than just a habit - it’s a commitment to myself. It’s not just about physical fitness but about mental wellness and keeping my spirit grounded and hopeful. It’s a way to remind myself that even if setbacks happen, I’m still showing up for myself. As I work through my recovery phase now, I can’t wait to get back to the court!?

So, what’s your thing? What’s that one activity that belongs to just you - no responsibilities, no expectations? When was the last time you did it? If you’re struggling to find your hour, maybe it’s time to carve it out. Your mind, body, and soul deserve it.

Let me know what helps you unwind. I’d love to hear your stories and thoughts. Maybe we can all learn a bit from each other on how to make life just a little bit lighter, one hour at a time.