The Self Care Phenomenon: How to Do it Right
The crazy life of a small business owner seems like it never takes a break or takes a breath. But it’s important that we encourage one another to be more intentional when it comes to taking care of ourselves. We all know there isn’t really a work/life balance… more like a work/life dance, since home and work can are often intertwined for an entrepreneur. So, let’s talk about self-care!
As this article so perfectly points out, we all think we take care of ourselves. But if someone asked you how you do that, how would you respond? That’s a difficult question to answer for a lot of us! Self-care isn’t zoning out during tv shows, it’s not retail therapy, and it’s not overextending yourself in anything from work to exercise. It’s both less and more than those things.
At the end of the day, we’re all we’ve got. Our bodies, our minds, our well-being affects everyone around us. It’s important, as businesswomen, moms, and entrepreneurs, that we take time to take care. A woman’s work is never done! So relaxing, de-stressing, and doing something that feeds your soul is essential to building a happy and healthy life.
What is self-care?
Self-care is essentially anything we willingly set aside time for that benefits our mental, emotional, or physical health. It’s not something we do because others are doing it and it’s not anything we feel we must force ourselves to do. It’s a way to relax, feed a passion, and give yourself new life in the midst of work and family.
It’s not selfish!
There’s often a misconception that self-care is synonymous with selfishness. This just isn’t true! If you think about it, we engage self-care to put ourselves in a better spot so that we can better care for others—family, friends, clients. It’s a cycle and self-care is an important part of it. By nurturing yourself, you’ll find that you’re better equipped to nurture those around you.
What does self-care look like?
Whatever you want it to! And, whenever works for you. It doesn’t have to be a full day or weekend, it can be a few minutes here and there that you take for yourself – whatever and whenever you need. Here are some ideas to get you thinking…
- Cooking
- Seeing a movie
- Take a bath
- Journal
- Read a book
- Attend a concert
- Grab coffee with a friend
- SILENCE your device
- Exercise or do yoga
- Learn a new skill
- Go for a drive
- Listen to music
- Anything that helps you feel refreshed
What would you recommend to others?
We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Never forget that we’re here to provide you with a network of supportive, outgoing, successful women, ready to help in whatever way possible. If you need help fleshing out an idea, want a second opinion, or need help in any stage of your venture, we’re here for you and can connect you with mentors who have been in similar situations. Contact us today to learn more, or check out one of our upcoming events and classes to connect with others.