Add Your Self to Your List
In a world that moves at the speed of light, many of us find ourselves having too much to do and not enough time to do it. You navigate the complexities of your career while also being the cornerstone for your growing children and aging parents. It's time to redefine what self-care means for you so it becomes a daily practice that sustains your emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
Let's start with the basics: nutrition. Embrace the 80/20 rule: make nutritious foods the mainstay of your diet and allow yourself some grace to indulge in a treat 20% of the time. This isn't about restrictive diets but fueling your body for peak performance. Go ahead and have a high calorie meal or a sinful dessert, but think of it as a treat and get right back into your healthy eating afterward.
Water, the elixir of life, is often overlooked in our daily routines. Yet, its benefits are profound, from enhancing cognitive function to ensuring your skin's radiance. A well-hydrated body is like a well-oiled machine, functioning at its best. Let's make a conscious effort to drink more water, even if it means setting a reminder on your phone. I have found that if I drink one to two glasses of water in the morning and I have a water glass or a water bottle handy, I can get the water I need throughout the day.
You're accustomed to making tough decisions daily. Yet, when it comes to boundaries, it gets complicated. Remember, "No." is a complete sentence. It shows that you know how to protect your time and have your priorities straight. If you would rather go home to your family, go for a walk, or pour yourself a tub, instead of staying late at work another night, it is your prerogative to do just that. If it stretches you too thin, or it doesn't align with your priorities, it's okay to say No.
Regular check-ups are non-negotiable. They are as crucial to your success as any business strategy meeting. Similarly, taking care of your mental health is paramount. It's not just about managing stress but nurturing a mindset that thrives on challenges and maintains a balance amidst chaos. Some people schedule their annual checkups on their birthdays or they go for their mammograms with a friend so it’s more fun. When I was working a 9-5 job, I scheduled health days so I could go to 2 or 3 appointments in one day. Your relationship with yourself is the longest one you will have in your life. Do whatever it takes “because you’re worth it,” and I mean that. It’s not just a clever tagline.
It's time to prioritize your-self. Make a commitment to yourself, just like you do for others. Recognize that by taking care of your well-being, you are well equipped to care for those around you without compromising what’s important to you. If this sounds like it’s never going to happen, start by taking ten minutes for yourself - a walk, a shower, or a power nap. You need to add yourself and your needs to your list. Xo
