When asked to write about self-care, I had to pause: Do I even have a self-care routine? The idea of self-care can feel overwhelming. Many of us grew up believing self-care is selfish, while social media now portrays an unattainable version of it.
For a while, I thought self-care required a complete overhaul of my lifestyle. I tried waking up at 5 a.m. after five hours of sleep, meditating, running 5Ks, and swapping coffee for matcha. I bought journals and downloaded countless apps. But I never managed to stick to these routines for more than a couple of days, leaving me feeling like I’d failed at self-care.
Eventually, I realized self-care isn’t about rigid rituals or perfection. It’s about understanding and respecting what genuinely works for you. Yes, physical well-being matters—I value going to the spa, taking time off, and getting professional guidance when needed. But, for me, self-care has become much simpler.
The key is recognizing my limits and setting boundaries. Protecting my well-being isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. It ensures I’m at my best for both myself and others. If you want to practice self-care, start with self-forgiveness. Stop being so hard on yourself for things beyond your control.
Be kind to yourself, acknowledge your progress, and remember: self-care is about grace, not guilt.
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