As you navigate the demands of your busy lives, it’s easy to forget about yourself and your own needs. You often prioritize work, family, and other responsibilities, leaving little time for self-care. But taking care of yourself is crucial to your mental and physical health, and can ultimately lead to greater success and happiness in other areas of your life.
One client in particular comes to mind. Let’s call her “Malaika”. Malaika was a busy professional with a demanding job, a long commute, and a family to take care of. Her days were packed from morning until night, and she felt like she was constantly running on fumes.
During one of our sessions, she broke down in tears, admitting that she felt like she was drowning. She had no time for the things she enjoyed, and no time to take care of herself. She felt guilty for even thinking about taking a break, and feared that everything would fall apart if she did.
Practical Tips for Prioritizing Self-Care
In this article, we’ll explore the small but practical ways we’ve come up with so that she could carve out time for herself and prioritize her self-care, even in the midst of her busy schedule. These tips can also help you if you’re having trouble finding “me” time.
1. Schedule it in:
One of the most effective ways to make time for yourself is to schedule it in your calendar. Set aside time each week to do something that brings you joy, whether it’s going for a walk, reading a book, or taking a yoga class. Make it a non-negotiable part of your routine, just like you would any other important appointment.
2. Practice mindfulness:
Practicing mindfulness can help you be more present and intentional with your time, allowing you to make the most of your moments of self-care. Incorporate mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling into your daily routine to help you stay centered and focused. Here’s the best way to practice your mindfulness with grounding exercise.
3. Learn to say no:
Saying no can be difficult, but it’s essential to making time for yourself. You don’t have to say yes to every request that comes your way. Set boundaries and prioritize your own needs, even if it means disappointing others.
4. Take care of your body:
Taking care of your physical health is a crucial part of self-care. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly. When your body is healthy, you’ll feel better and have more energy to devote to yourself.
5. Get creative:
Engaging in creative activities can be a great way to make time for yourself and tap into your inner child. Whether it’s painting, writing, playing an instrument, or even doing some adult coloring, creative activities can be a source of joy and fulfillment.
By following these practical tips, you can make time for yourself and prioritize self-care, even in the midst of a busy life. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish, it’s necessary for your well-being and happiness. Make yourself a priority and watch as your life transforms for the better.
Although these were just a few of the small ways Makaila did to make time for herself, the results were tremendous, as her well-being and happiness improved.
But despite this being perfectly effective to Makaila, we remind you that self-care is not a one-size-fits-all approach. What works for one person may not work for another, and it’s important to find what feels right for you. Whether it’s a solo hike in nature, a weekly yoga class, or just a quiet moment with your favorite book, find what nourishes your soul and commit to making time for it regularly.
In the end, what is important is to learn what she learned. Malaika learned that making time for herself is essential for her overall well-being, and it doesn’t have to be complicated. Right now, she always reminds herself that taking care of herself is not a luxury. By taking care of herself, she’ll be better able to take care of the people and responsibilities that matter to her.
Another important thing to take note of is to not be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Whether it’s from a friend, family member, or professional, getting support can help you make time for yourself and prioritize self-care. Shirley Therapeutic and Consulting Services, LLC, is a diverse therapy clinic that can meet the needs of anyone. If you’d like to talk about your mental health, feel free to message us. In case of emergency or thoughts of suicide, please click on this link: https://www.sprc.org/states/georgia
Note: The client, “Makaila”, here gave her consent to share her story in this article. She willingly volunteered to be able to give inspiration to other people who are struggling with their mental health.
