Self Care Isn't Selfish

When was the last time you took care of yourself? ??

For most people I work with, supporting others can usually be at the top of their list, but self-care should be JUST as important for you to practice.

I know what you might be thinking…

“Is this really worth my time? Isn’t it selfish to focus on my own needs rather than those around me?”

As leaders and helping professionals, we talk a lot about serving others, but not nearly enough about serving yourself.

When you serve yourself with the right tools, you’ll help those around you even more because you get to learn how to show up as your best self and as a leader.

So no, selfish is the last thing self-care is! It is one of the best habits you can begin for you to prioritize your own well-being and support others.

So today, I’m sharing a few very practical ways we can practice self-care while caring for those around us! I’m also linking a video for each one to share the science behind them.?

These practices can only work as much as you work with them. Try to use them as consistently as possible and really make these types of exercises your own daily habits.

Gratitude Practice: LOOK UP

Talk to the people you encounter every day like at your coffee shop or on your commute, even if it’s for a minute or just to say hello. This small exchange helps to make people feel recognized and valued in a world when our heads are usually down and in our phones. Being present with those in front of you is a form of expressing gratitude and showing appreciation.

Journal Prompt

How have your stressors changed over the last 5 years? Is there anything that you are stressed about right now that was once something you really wanted? If so, can you remember why you originally wanted it? Can you remember the feeling it originally gave you when you had it? Take time to reflect and get your thoughts out of your head and onto paper.?

Affirmations

I am amazing at what I do. I operate in excellence. I add value wherever I am. I shine wherever I am.

Find words that uplift, inspire, and make you feel good! Then repeat them, put them on sticky notes and recite them when you see them, put your affirmations as your phone background! Just find more ways to revisit kind words about yourself more often than the harsh ones we allow to run on autopilot.??

These 3 evidence-based practices have all been proven to change the way we process and respond to stressful information. When we practice them consistently, our brains are better equipped to respond to our environment rather than impulsively reacting. Whether you do these practices or find your own, the power will lie in the consistency. So find what works for you and keep it up! I’m rooting for you!

Ready to start the conversation about training and resources for your team? Check our our resources & schedule your consultation by getting on our calendar. Visit the link below!?

Create a great day! #MakoMindfulness

#PsychologicalSafety #StressManagement #ProfessionalDevelopment #TrainingAndDevelopment #LeadershipDevelopment #StaffDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #SelfCare ?