The Fringe Hours by Jessica N. Turner

Last updated: Jul 16, 2023

Summary of The Fringe Hours by Jessica N. Turner

The Fringe Hours by Jessica N. Turner is a book that explores the concept of finding and making time for oneself amidst the busyness of life. Turner emphasizes the importance of self-care and encourages women to prioritize their own needs and desires.

Turner begins by acknowledging the various roles women often play in their lives, such as being a mother, wife, employee, and friend. She highlights the tendency for women to neglect their own well-being in favor of taking care of others and fulfilling their responsibilities.

The author introduces the concept of "fringe hours," which are pockets of time that can be found throughout the day. These hours are typically underutilized and can be used for personal pursuits and self-care. Turner encourages readers to identify their own fringe hours and make a conscious effort to use them for activities that bring them joy and fulfillment.

Throughout the book, Turner provides practical tips and strategies for maximizing these fringe hours. She suggests creating a "time inventory" to identify how time is currently being spent and to identify areas where time can be better utilized. She also emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and saying no to activities that do not align with one's priorities.

Turner addresses common obstacles that women may face in finding and utilizing their fringe hours, such as guilt, comparison, and the fear of being selfish. She provides reassurance and encouragement, reminding readers that taking care of oneself is not selfish but necessary for overall well-being.

The author also explores various activities that can be pursued during fringe hours, such as hobbies, exercise, reading, and self-reflection. She emphasizes the importance of finding activities that bring joy and fulfillment, rather than simply filling time with mindless distractions.

Additionally, Turner discusses the importance of self-care in various aspects of life, including physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. She encourages readers to prioritize self-care and provides practical suggestions for incorporating it into daily routines.

Overall, The Fringe Hours is a comprehensive guide for women seeking to prioritize self-care and find time for themselves amidst the demands of life. Turner's practical advice and encouragement serve as a reminder that self-care is not selfish but essential for personal happiness and fulfillment.

1. The Importance of Self-Care

In "The Fringe Hours," Jessica N. Turner emphasizes the significance of self-care and how it directly impacts our overall well-being. She encourages readers to prioritize themselves and their needs, reminding us that taking care of ourselves is not selfish but necessary. Turner explains that self-care is not just about pampering or indulging in leisure activities; it is about intentionally carving out time for activities that bring us joy, recharge our energy, and help us maintain a healthy balance in life.

By understanding the importance of self-care, we can better manage our time and make room for activities that nourish our minds, bodies, and souls. Turner suggests identifying our personal self-care needs and finding creative ways to incorporate them into our daily routines. Whether it's reading a book, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in a hobby, self-care allows us to show up as our best selves in all areas of life.

2. Embracing the Power of Saying No

One of the key takeaways from "The Fringe Hours" is the power of saying no. Turner highlights the importance of setting boundaries and learning to decline commitments that do not align with our priorities or values. She explains that saying no is not a sign of weakness or selfishness but a way to protect our time and energy.

By saying no to activities or obligations that do not serve us, we create space for the things that truly matter. Turner encourages readers to evaluate their commitments and consider whether they align with their goals and values. By embracing the power of saying no, we can reclaim our time and focus on the activities that bring us joy and fulfillment.

3. Maximizing Productivity in Small Moments

In "The Fringe Hours," Turner emphasizes the importance of maximizing productivity in small moments. She encourages readers to identify pockets of time throughout the day that often go unused, such as waiting in line or during a commute, and utilize them effectively. By making the most of these small moments, we can accomplish tasks, pursue hobbies, or engage in self-care activities.

Turner suggests creating a list of small tasks or activities that can be completed in short bursts of time. This could include reading articles, organizing a drawer, or practicing deep breathing exercises. By utilizing these fringe hours, we can make progress on our goals and feel a sense of accomplishment, even in the midst of a busy schedule.

4. The Power of Intentional Planning

Intentional planning is a key concept discussed in "The Fringe Hours." Turner emphasizes the importance of setting aside dedicated time to plan and prioritize our activities. By intentionally planning our days, weeks, and months, we can ensure that we allocate time for the things that matter most to us.

Turner suggests using tools such as planners, calendars, or digital apps to map out our schedules and commitments. By doing so, we can identify potential conflicts, make necessary adjustments, and ensure that we have enough time for self-care and pursuing our passions. Intentional planning helps us create a balanced and fulfilling life, where we can make the most of our fringe hours.

5. Overcoming Guilt and Comparison

Guilt and comparison are common barriers that prevent us from prioritizing ourselves and our needs. In "The Fringe Hours," Turner addresses these challenges and provides strategies for overcoming them. She reminds readers that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity, and we should not feel guilty for taking care of ourselves.

Turner encourages readers to let go of comparison and focus on their own unique needs and desires. She emphasizes that everyone's fringe hours will look different, and what brings joy and fulfillment to one person may not be the same for another. By embracing our individuality and letting go of guilt and comparison, we can fully embrace our fringe hours and live a more balanced and fulfilling life.

6. Cultivating a Supportive Community

In "The Fringe Hours," Turner emphasizes the importance of cultivating a supportive community. She encourages readers to surround themselves with people who understand and value the concept of self-care and personal growth. Having a supportive community can provide encouragement, accountability, and inspiration.

Turner suggests seeking out like-minded individuals through online communities, local groups, or even starting a book club centered around personal development. By connecting with others who share similar goals and values, we can create a supportive network that helps us stay motivated and committed to our self-care practices.

7. Embracing Imperfection and Flexibility

Embracing imperfection and flexibility is another key takeaway from "The Fringe Hours." Turner reminds readers that life is unpredictable, and it's important to be flexible with our plans and expectations. She encourages us to let go of perfectionism and embrace the beauty of imperfection.

By being flexible and adaptable, we can navigate unexpected challenges and make the most of our fringe hours. Turner suggests being open to adjusting our schedules and priorities as needed, without feeling overwhelmed or defeated. Embracing imperfection allows us to find joy and fulfillment in the midst of life's uncertainties.

8. Celebrating Progress, Not Perfection

Lastly, "The Fringe Hours" emphasizes the importance of celebrating progress, rather than striving for perfection. Turner encourages readers to acknowledge and celebrate the small wins and accomplishments along the way. By focusing on progress, we can maintain motivation and a positive mindset.

Turner suggests keeping a gratitude journal or regularly reflecting on our achievements, no matter how small they may seem. By celebrating progress, we cultivate a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction, which fuels our desire to continue prioritizing ourselves and our fringe hours.