Do you often find yourself pulled in a lot of different directions? Between work, home, and social responsibilities, do you often feel that you spend all your time on others, or do you always feel as if you need to be “on”? If so, you are not alone. Neglecting self-care in today’s busy world is easy, but its consequences can become severe. Adding self-care practices to your monthly or daily routine can significantly strengthen your mental, emotional, and physical health and well-being.
Many people think of self-care as selfishness or time spent at the spa or having long luxurious baths, and it may be for some, but self-care can be super simple! The key to self-care is creating a routine that aligns with your personality and lifestyle. If you need help to make self-care a consistent practice, try following the strategies below.
Try these simple self-care strategies today:
- Block out time for self-care in your schedule. Self-care is an ongoing process. At the same time, it does not have to be a daily ritual; schedule at least 15 minutes each month. Just as you reserve time in your schedule for other appointments, set aside time to take care of yourself. Adopting self-care habits that you can enjoy and that make you feel fulfilled regularly is crucial. These habits will help you to feel restored, which will help you avoid burnout, increase your productivity, and allow you to enjoy life more.
- Enjoy your favorite hobby. Whether you love to experiment with new recipes in the kitchen or paint pictures of sunsets, your favorite hobbies can be part of self-care. Doing something you look forward to will encourage you to make time for them. Hobbies and activities you enjoy are great and easy ways to develop an ongoing process.
- Make a note of the compliments and achievements you receive. Have you ever heard someone say, “Stop and smell the roses.”? The meaning is about stopping and celebrating the present. It would help if you also took the time to appreciate achievements and compliments. Start taking notes of the compliments and accomplishments that you receive. You can keep them in a journal, diary, or your phone. These could include emails, messages, thank you cards, and other things that make you smile. This simple practice also helps to fight negative thoughts and self-talk while helping to remind you that you matter and you are essential.
- Energize your space or remove clutter. Whether you decide to tidy up your desk, declutter your closet, or clean out the fridge, removing clutter will uplift you. It is proven that clutter can drain you physically and mentally because clutter and chaos generate negative energy. Isn’t science fascinating?! You will notice such a massive increase in your energy and mood! Take some time to eliminate the things that no longer serve you or make you unhappy as you try to move through your day.
- Do one selfish act per month. No one wants to be considered selfish, and indeed, living selfishly day to day isn’t recommended, but doing one selfish act occasionally can make you happy. You can enjoy just that one thing without feeling guilty about it! If you struggle with self-care, it’s usually because you spend all your energy and time caring for others. There’s nothing left in your well for yourself. As I always say, ‘you can’t pour from an empty cup.’ You’ll be restoring your importance by taking the time to do one selfish act, such as blocking out quiet time, reading your favorite book, or postponing a phone call.
“Keep taking time for yourself until you are you again.”
– Lahlah Delia
Self-care often takes a backseat to work, family, and other obligations. However, without stopping to care for your mind and body, you risk burning out and suffering from serious health issues. When you take care of yourself, you can better serve those other areas of your life that require your time and attention. Conversely, creating a habitual self-care practice increase overall health, mood, emotions, and productivity. Plus, experts share that the happiest and most successful people regularly focus on self-care! Start making time for your self-care practices today!