I Choose Self-Care

I choose to prioritize my needs. I can’t take care of others until I take care of myself.

Many people struggle with putting themselves first, because they feel guilty, selfish, or unworthy. They sacrifice their own needs and desires for the sake of others and neglect their own health and happiness. They may think that by doing so, they are being kind, generous, or loyal, but in reality, they are harming themselves and those they care about. When you don’t prioritize yourself first, you are not giving your best to yourself or anyone else. Your well-being, dreams, and happiness are in your hands, and taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s a necessity. No one can do it for you, because no one knows you better than yourself.

Self-care, a form of self-respect, refers to the intentional practice of taking care of one’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It involves prioritizing activities and behaviors that promote self-nurturing, relaxation, and personal growth recognizing and honoring your own needs, health and happiness. It is not selfish or indulgent, but rather a vital aspect of maintaining balance and resilience in the face of life’s challenges so you become better equipped to positively impact the world around you.

Benefits of Self-care

Self-care is not just a luxury; it is a vital practice that nurtures our overall well-being. Taking the time to prioritize self-care brings numerous benefits to our physical, mental, and emotional health. It allows us to recharge, rejuvenate, and maintain a healthy balance in our lives. Self-care reduces stress, improves mood, and enhances our ability to cope with daily challenges. It promotes self-awareness, self-compassion, and a deeper connection with ourselves. By investing in self-care, we cultivate a stronger sense of self, boost our self-esteem, and improve our relationships with others. It empowers us to show up as our best selves, enabling us to give more to others and make a positive impact in the world. Ultimately, self-care is an act of self-love and self-respect, providing the foundation for a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Simple Acts of Self-care

Self-care can take many forms, including but not limited to:

Emotional self-care: Taking steps to nurture your emotional well-being, such as expressing your feelings, engaging in activities that bring you joy, and practicing self-compassion and self-acceptance.
Mental self-care: Prioritizing activities that support your mental well-being, such as engaging in hobbies or creative pursuits, setting boundaries to manage stress, and engaging in lifelong learning.
Social self-care: Cultivating healthy relationships and connections with others, spending quality time with loved ones, and engaging in activities that foster a sense of belonging and community.
Spiritual self-care: Nurturing your spiritual well-being, which can involve engaging in practices such as meditation, prayer, spending time in nature, or engaging in acts of kindness and service.

Self-care is a personal and individualized practice. It is about listening to your own needs and finding what works best for you. By incorporating self-care into your routine, you can enhance your overall well-being, reduce stress, and cultivate a greater sense of balance and fulfillment in your life.

This Blog is part of our Choose for Yourself Challenge. Chick HERE to learn more.

Your Turn: Self-Care

By prioritizing yourself first, you are not only improving your own life, but also the lives of those around you.

Become Aware

What does self-care mean to you?
Take a couple minutes to write down your current self-care practices. Are they providing the care you need? Reflect and update your list as needed.
Have areas of your life been impacted by not practicing self-care?
Notice the gaps, triggers, patterns, and situations that interrupt your ability to take care of yourself first.
Acknowledge your (insert trigger, pattern or behavior) and its (insert impact)

I am aware ______________________ and it’s _________________________.

Be Grateful

Identify one trigger, pattern or situation you want to become aware of and use as a reminder.
What is the mindset you want to have once you become aware.
Change your perspective, be grateful for (insert trigger), because it reminds you to (insert mindset).

I am grateful ________________________ and because I can __________________________.