Guilt-free Self-care
At some point, we started believing that laziness is not being productive every minute of the day. Work-life balance became nonexistent, and stress was a measure of success. Falling into this mindset leads to unhappiness, burnout, and ultimately a less productive state. Self-care can lead to finding the best version of ourselves. Many of us have moved beyond the “rest and recharge” phase and need additional help relaxing the reins.
What Does Self-care Look Like?
Prioritizing your mental health can take on a variety of forms and is important in every aspect of life. It is not simply taking a day off to relax. Self-care needs to be built into our regular routines, like laundry, a workout class, paying bills, and scheduled meetings. When there is a focus on these continuous moments, it’s easier to commit to self-care.
It can take on a variety of forms and is important in every aspect of life. It is not simply taking a day off to relax. Self-care needs to be built into our regular routines, like laundry, a workout class, paying bills, and scheduled meetings. When there is a focus on these continuous moments, it’s easier to commit to self-care.
5 Ways to Prioritize Self-Care
- Make Time: If we can make time to exercise, meet work deadlines, and tune in to our favorite Netflix show, we have time for self-care. Stop thinking of self-care as optional. It is a necessity. That little time that we carve out for self-care will pay off tenfold.
2. Learning How to Set Healthy Boundaries: It’s normal human nature to want to say “yes” and do everything. It’s not necessary, and it’s not sustainable. Unfortunately, some obligations must be attended to, but be picky and purposeful about the invitations and tasks that end up on the calendar. If you make time for your priorities, then delegating smaller tasks is a natural way to set boundaries. This is not being lazy, just smart.
3. Create a Reliable Routine: Start small and in your comfort zone, ideally in the morning (it doesn’t have to be first thing). There is no one-size-fits-all plan. It could be as little as five minutes of reading, meditating, or taking a quick walk. By taking charge of the day, it’s easier to feel more confident and in control.
4. Take a Technology Break: Reevaluate screen time limits (and implement them), and consider turning off screens an hour before bed (or at least 30 minutes). This will help with relaxation and getting quality rest.. Everyone can agree that sufficient rest is so important in maintaining physical and mental well-being. Delegating smaller tasks is also a great way to set boundaries. This is not being lazy, just smart.
5. Finally, ask yourself if YOU are ok, often: How is it going? Sometimes we are so worried about taking care of others that we forget to check in with ourselves. Make it a regular practice to take time to listen to yourself. Scheduling regular sessions with a licensed therapist is a great way to keep yourself on track.
What can this look like?
Guilt-free Balance at Work
Yes, self-care at work is possible and should be implemented. Setting boundaries during your workday can be a form of self-care that can alleviate stress.
Turning Social Stress into Meaningful Connections
Some people are social butterflies and love to have a full calendar, while others would opt to stay home at every opportunity.
Creating Serenity at Home
Most people think of self-care as something to do as far away from home as possible. However, a spa day, long weekend, or vacation just isn’t the reality for many of us.
This is just the beginning. These five steps will help you balance all areas of your life. Starting is always the hard part, and our team of therapists at Renewed Wellness can help you create a plan to alleviate stress and anxiety in your life. Reach out for a free consultation.
