Initially I thought I already wrote a blog post regarding why self care matters, but when looking back, I realized I had not, but that it is only often on my mind. I used to think that taking time out for self care and spending money on myself was selfish and a waste of time. Often saying to myself, "Why should I spend time and money on myself when other's depend on me; isn't that selfish.?" I used to think this to be true, but now I realize it indeed is the opposite. Like most things in life, this can be taken to extremes in either direction and having a healthy balance is pertinent so you do not cut yourself short or become self absorbed and narcissistic. Self care allows us to be better for ourselves and therefore those around us whom we love, care for, and interact with. For example, if you feel run ragged, let your hair, skin, grooming, and personal hygiene go, then you will not feel attractive or sexually appealing to your partner and therefore avoid intimacy. This will affect your relationships in negative ways as all people need physical touch and affection. This may seem like an extreme example, but it in fact is not uncommon. How often do you crave intimacy when you feel ugly and unattractive versus when you feel beautiful and desirable?
It is important to take care of your mind, body, and soul. If any one of these areas is lacking, it will affect your overall feelings of self worth and purpose. If you've let your body go, exercise, eat well, and take care of your skin. Skin is the largest organ and it will show if you haven't been taking care of it just like lack of sleep will cause bags under your eyes and eating a poor diet will make you gain weight in all the wrong places. When your life becomes , "Status quo", change it up. Go for a hike, take a vacation even if only a weekend trip, listen to an audiobook while you commute in the car. Everyone has the same 24 hours in a day, it's up to you how you use those hours to enrich your life and those of others. What you do the most of will show you where your priorities lie. Despite popular belief, none of us are trapped. We all are a product of the decisions and choices we make. If you hate your job and it's draining your soul, find a new one. If you can't, then acquire a new skill so you can. Self care goes so much deeper than the superficial.
If you have children and a family to care for, self care is especially important, even though it can be the hardest in these scenarios. Ask yourself, am I a better parent when I'm tired, feel unattractive, and neglected myself or am I a better parent when I'm well rested, feel good about my appearance, and taken care of myself. When you stop to ask yourself these questions, the answer is obvious. Next time you're ready to skimp on yourself in any of these areas analyze these questions. This is not your excuse to make unnecessary lavish purchases with money you don't have, but rather set aside funds and time to have and do the things that genuinely make you feel better, enrich your life, and give you purpose. The world will be a better place because of it. As it has been said many times, you create your reality, so create one where you are amazing inside and out.
