When obligations seem to occupy every moment of the day, self-care may be the first task to fall off your to-do List. But tending to your mental and physical health is critical, for both your own well-being as well as your ability to be there for others.
Self-care is an umbrella term for activities that promote personal health. Performing acts of self-care helps us to manage stress, keep energy levels up, and prevent disease. And while it’s long been stereotyped as a luxury, self-care is important for everyone, and it doesn’t have to be extravagant. It can be a small and simple action. That means while a spa day certainly qualifies, so does eating a healthy meal, taking a 5-minute break, or strolling around the block.
For people used to putting others first, stepping away to recharge may seem selfish or indulgent. You might feel guilty taking the time, even though you know it’s important. But remember: The consequences of consistently neglecting yourself—such as anxiety, anger, illness, and burnout—can trickle down, affecting the people who need you.
Simple self-care tips
Renewing yourself is vital. With that in mind, here are three simple forms of self-care meant to carve out some space. They’ll help you find the time you need to rejuvenate your mind and body.
Learn to say no. Self-care starts with setting good boundaries, which help establish your independence and conserve mental and physical energy for when you really need it. An effective boundary is:
- Focused on meeting your needs, but respectful to the needs of others
- Realistic and reasonable, meaning not too strict but not too lax
- Clearly defined, so there’s little ambiguity
- Communicated to others, but only if you choose to do so
Regarding communication: Not all boundaries need to be shared. If you choose to limit texts from your in-laws after a certain time of night, for example, you can quietly turn your phone notifications off without explanation.
Delegate. Does it feel like you have too many responsibilities? Or perhaps, like you’re the only one who can handle them? Look around. Chances are, others can pitch in, freeing you up for a few minutes of self-care.
If you’re not sure how to begin delegating, start by considering your day-to-day to-do list. Then, decide which tasks are your priorities and focus your energies on them. Finally, allocate the rest to others who are capable and reliable. Kids can handle certain household chores, for example, or an assistant coach can plan the next baseball practice.
Remember that you’re not letting anyone down—the necessary tasks are still getting done. You’re just giving yourself a much-needed break. There are also benefits to empowering others to take on some responsibility.
Build social connections. Whether it’s a professional life coach or a coffee break buddy, being accountable to someone else can help ensure you take the time to engage in self-care. That person—or group of people—can keep you on track, guide you through challenges, and motivate you as you navigate your way. (In fact, this may be something you do for others every day.)
Finding your accountability partner may be as simple as enlisting a like-minded friend. You can also ask a healthcare provider for referrals for support groups or dedicated organizations.
