4 Thoughts That Have You Neglecting Your Self-Care

As busy women who wear many hats, we sometimes find ourselves lost in the shuffle, our wants and needs falling to the bottom of the list. But why is it that we put ourselves last? Although we might be responsible for others in our family to some extent, we are also responsible for taking care of ourselves.

So what is it that has us neglecting our self-care for the sake of others? 

Let's take a look at some of the thoughts you might be having that are stopping you from taking the time you need, and deserve, for self-care.

My hope is that by sharing these, you'll begin to make deliberate and strategic choices, taking the time you need for yourself.

1) If I don’t do it, it won't get done (or won’t get done right)

There are always things that need to be done. Our to-do lists are endless! Whether it's something to be done around the house or something at work.

Yes, some things do need to be done by you specifically. But does it ALL have to be? And what are truly the consequences of NOT getting that thing done?

I know it can be hard to let go of control. Of wanting things to be done in a certain way. But don't let those thoughts get in the way of taking care of you.

Ask yourself: Can the specific task be delegated? Even if it's not done to your standards, is it good enough? Or can that thing wait for another day?

2) The house will get messy and disorganized if I take time for myself

We all want the perfect house with no mess and everything in its place. But even if you could spend all your time making that happen, would you even get to that point of perfection? Is it realistic?

Chances are, it's not. We need to look past this and decide that the state of our physical environment is "good enough". 

There are some spaces around your home that you'll want to keep tidy and organized, like your personal self-care space.

Don't wait to take the time you need for yourself. The rest can wait for another day! 

3) I can't afford to pamper myself

Getting a massage or going for a manicure are great self-care ideas, but these might not be feasible ideas for you right now. And that’s okay. 

Taking time for self-care doesn’t have to mean you’re spending tons of money. Taking time out with a good book, going for a solo walk or going for coffee with a good friend are all ways to inexpensively bring self-care into your regular routine. 

There are also tons of great homemade spa ideas you can try, like homemade bath bombs or just a simple bubble bath might do the trick. 

Self-care isn't just about expensive day-long spa getaways or extensive retreats. Self-care can be super simple and still bring you great benefits. The important part is to take time everyday for yourself, using a variety of self-care rituals in your routines.

4) My family can't survive a weekend without me

Ever think you’d like to get away? Maybe a weekend at a cottage or hotel room by yourself or with some girlfriends? A weekend just for you, with no one looking for your attention or looking for you to do something for them. 

Simply a weekend to relax and recharge your batteries. It can seem like a big step when you’re used to being there for your family 24/7, but trust me, it will benefit everyone if you do this for yourself. 

I've been doing this for several years with a few of my friends, and my family has managed to survive each and every time! I always come back refreshed and this is beneficial to everyone. If you want to know how to create your own retreat, check out this post I wrote.

You can't do it all

Doing it all might seem ideal, but it's not a sustainable way to be. You need time to recharge. Your to-do list isn't going anywhere!

Of course it's important to look after your responsibilities, whatever they might be, but be sure that one of those is YOU. Because only you can give yourself what you need.

What's next?

Would you like more support as you try to find balance between your responsibilities and taking care of you? I invite you to check out my new group coaching program, Journey of Rediscovery, where together, we'll define your struggles, decide what you want, and make a plan to get there!

I would love to have you join us! If you have any questions or comments, feel free to comment below or send me an email at [email protected]. I would love to hear from you!

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