Self Care is Non Negotiable
We are just 14 days into the new year and well, I’m totally reminded that I’m not good at this whole self care thing. I feel like I’m constantly going and going and while I’m good at telling other folks to take care of themselves, I don’t always do a good job of it myself. As I sit here and type up this blog post, I am physically and mentally tired. I know the importance of self care and it’s time I did better, period. If I don’t figure out how to truly cultivate a life that includes taking care of myself in all facets, I’m going to constantly be in a state of needing a nap or just wanting to lay around, and that is no way to live!
Self-care is defined as the practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s own self being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress.
I don’t think self care looks the same for all of us but I definitely feel like it is absolutely important to take care of ourselves so that we have a fighting chance at being our best day in and day out. For me, self care is about making sure that I feed my faith so that I’m not weighed down by day to day life. It’s about getting the rest that I need so that I can operate in excellence whether it be my writing or my career. I realize that I need to intentionally create opportunities to let my mind rest. It’s not something we should just fall back on when we can’t think straight out of exhaustion or when we feel so stressed out that we’re cranky and not the most pleasant person to be around. Self care is a necessity and to live my best life, it is non-negotiable!
Mastering the art of self care was not my main priority coming into this new year but I’ve decided to adjust my priorities. Why? Because my mental health is important. My faith needs to be fed daily. My body cannot function at its optimal level if I don’t take care of it. My “self being” is important. Simply put, my mission today, tomorrow, and point forward, is to take care of those parts of myself that others don’t see but that I live with every single day. I’ve removed some things off of my plate. I’ve taken some deadlines off the table. I’m intentionally making myself a priority and I’m excited to see what I learn about myself along the way.
If you struggle with this as well, below are a few things I’m incorporating into my life (or bringing back) to ensure I’m “protecting my own self being and happiness.” Remember….We can’t pour from an empty vessel. I encourage you to take care of your mind, your body, and your spirit. Slow down long enough feed your body, literally and figuratively, of what you need. Be proactive in protecting your self being. And yes…I’m going to take my own advice.
Memorize more scripture.
Start back journaling. (I’m constantly buying journals. It’s time to fill them up.)
Get back to working out 4 to 5 days a week.
Create a morning and night routine that’s realistic and doable everyday. (More on that later…)
Take my butt to bed a decent hour every single night.
K R Y S T L E
