Do you worry about everyone else before you even begin to think about your own needs and your own self-care? I find myself slipping into that rut and this year I want to be better about putting my needs first. The problem is that for the most part, I really enjoy taking care of others. Over the years I have become better at saying “No.” when a situation arose that I just could not fit into my schedule. In the past, I would do everything possible to say “yes.” even if it meant stressing myself out to get whatever that thing was done.
So, this year I want to be better about recognizing when my body is telling me to slow down…headaches, fatigue, grumpiness, and feeling overwhelmed. For example, today I was going to work some more on my computer or read several chapters in my current book but then felt really sleepy and opted to take a short nap on the couch. I am trying to get over a holiday cold that is lingering. I think my body was telling me to just rest and I listened. I woke up feeling refreshed.
What do you do for self-care? Do you exercise? I know many people who run or hike for their mental/physical health. I know others who swear by yoga and meditation. Whatever it is that brings you comfort, do it. Carve out the time for it. Put it onto your calendar as an appointment with yourself. I plan to do just that this year…I pledge to be better at giving myself the attention I give everyone else.
I challenge you to do the same. Let me know how it goes. How does it feel to put yourself first?
2 responses to “Self-care in the new year”
I am working on this big time. When I do it, I feel genuinely recharged, but I always let myself slip first down the priority list. My boss and I were talking about this – we both really prioritized ourselves over the holiday break we had – and agreed to keep some sacred time on our calendars where we are not expected to be responsive to work (even though it’s already outside work hours!).
Hoping I can keep to it, it’s so hard. For me this is either a workout or a no-phone sort of rest. I just need an hour and I feel so much better and less cranky.
I was cranky this weekend and then I realized it was due to taking down the remaining Christmas decorations (always difficult for me). I wish I could listen to the advice I give everyone else…”put yourself first” “Just say no!” “take breaks”…so much easier to say to others than to do for myself. I am glad you are having the same kind of conversations with others. Confirms that I am not the only one to feel this way!