So often as women, we think choosing to prioritize ourselves and our needs is self-centered. Nothing could be further from the truth. By caring for yourself, you ensure you have the energy and stamina to care for the people and things that matter most to you. If you don’t take the time to recharge, you won’t be able to juggle everything in your life.
Massages and manicures are only part of the picture. Self-care is about caring for every aspect of your physical, spiritual, and psychological well-being.
Here are some tips for making your self-care a priority in your life.
Put it at the top of your list. You are your most important asset, treat yourself that way! Schedule time to at least weekly if not daily to care for your mind, body, soul and spirt. Consider creating a morning or evening ritual like meditation along with a daily workout to move your body. Grab your calendar right now and carve out time on a regular basis for you care for you!
Seek out support. Be willing to ASK for help instead of waiting for people to offer. Only you know exactly what will support you in giving your best. Trust that you will get the support you need when you ask. Remember to be clear about your expected result.
Release the guilt. Self-care is not selfish. In fact, it is one of the greatest gifts you can give to those around you. Taking the time to take care of yourself so that you can be a better wife, mother, sister, friend, employee, boss, etc. is good for everyone!
Say NO! Create a list of things you will choose to say NO to. Here are some examples: no phone calls during family time, no multi-tasking at work. Be willing to say NO to job opportunities that are not aligned with your career objectives as well. Make sure that what you choose to say YES to supports your highest good in every area of your career and personal life.
Do what works for you. Your self-care process is as personal as your fingerprints. Don’t get caught in the trap of trying to do it “the right way” there is no right way only your way. Do those things that make you feel better, enhance your self-image and self-esteem and increase your overall energy level. Don’t worry about what everyone else is doing.
In my experience (and that of many of my clients), the more you focus on your self-care, the more life seems to “flow,” the less resistance you experience and the more grounded you feel when facing the challenges of life. Commit to making yourself your number one priority so you can care for those you care about!
-Cornelia Shipley, Career Coach
www.corneliashipley.com
