Give Yourself Permission To Put Yourself First

Self-care sounds so simple on paper, but why do we find it just as hard to squeeze into our lives, as we do our favourite pair of jeans after a warm wash?

And then, when we do finally make time for ourselves, do we spoil it by feeling guilty? Like we should be something else? More productive perhaps? Like putting the washing on instead?

There are a lot of reasons why. And that’s probably for another blog post. The more pressing matter is how we can help you give yourself permission to self-care.

Here are 3 self-care mantras to try out:
 

Because you are worth it

I am worthy of my own time and attention.

You are amazing. And you deserve to do what makes you happy. Are you asking for a week-long, five-star resort beach stay (although wouldn’t that be nice)? No, you’re just after a bit of time for you. And that sounds more than perfectly reasonable.  

Self-care is a necessity, not a luxury

I give myself permission to pause.

We all lead such busy lives. Busy with work, home, family, friends… there’s a lot to do. And society wouldn’t have it any other way. We’ve become hooked on being productive.

Yes, we find energy from doing things. But we also find energy from pausing. It’s important to take time out from schedules, plans and expectations. Because when we do, we’ve given ourselves the room to breathe.
 

Taking care of me is taking care of others 

I will give people the best of me, not leave them with what’s left of me.

On the days when you feel too tired, too stressed, or too busy are you waiting for a fairy godmother to wave their magic wand and create the gift of self-care? You’ll be waiting for a while…  

Nobody is going to know you need time out more than you. So, if you don’t do it for yourself, do it for those around you. Rest, relax, and then come back recharged.