Why Self-Care isn't Optional

I know what it’s like, we’re all busy and have commitments that pull us in different directions: work, family, friends… However, how much time do you actually spend looking after yourself?

Many of my clients find that fulfilling their own needs has dropped to the final item on their to-do-list. This is often a gradual process, so you may not realise it has happened until self-care is not a priority for you. However, making time to look after yourself is essential, not optional. Here’s why:
 
You will have more energy
Looking after yourself by ensuring that you eat well, sleep well, get some exercise and have fun, will mean you have more energy to put towards whatever you want or need to do.
 
You will be more successful
If you have nurtured yourself emotionally and physically you will be more resilient and more likely to feel you can take on the world. Just think what you can achieve when you feel this way!
 
You will feel valued
By practicing self-care you will remind yourself of just how important you are and what you do achieve. Feeling valued can help increase self-esteem and confidence too.
 
You will be happier
If you spend time looking after your own needs your mental health will reap the benefits. You will feel calmer, happier and in a better place to tackle the curveballs that life can throw at us.
 
Make sure you add looking after your own needs to your to-do-list. I don’t mean that you should concentrate on yourself to other people’s detriment, but that you value your own care in the same way that you care for others.
 
Remember, you won’t be able to look after anyone if you start to fall apart. So, think about how you can make yourself feel loved and cared for; and how much you and all those around you will benefit.