Let’s talk about self-care

What comes to mind when you think of self-care? Taking bubble baths, exercising and eating nutritiously? All of these things can be great self-care strategies, but for me, self-care is about not pushing myself beyond my limits. Unfortunately, I learned the hard way how pushing myself beyond my limits can be incredibly detrimental to physical and mental health.

My first job out of college was coordinating proposals, which is an inherently stressful job putting together responses under tight client deadlines. My ambition allowed me to quickly rise into a management position, and I seemed to have it all.

Except I was incredibly stressed, to the point of sobbing every day on the drive home from work and experiencing intense back pain. I hit rock bottom and knew something had to change. I started going to therapy for the first time ever in my life, and I learned strategies for reducing stress and making work a less integral part of my identity. Three years later, I am still going to therapy regularly and working on prioritizing self-care.

I have learned to set boundaries both personally and professionally, saying no when I can’t take on any more. I also try to give myself a break as much as possible when I am not able to be as productive as I’d like. As a reminder, I have an index card on my desk that reads:

“Busyness does NOT equal productivity, and it surely is not a sign of self-worth.”

It still is a daily struggle for me to not push myself beyond my limits, but when I am successful, my mental and physical health greatly improve.

Self-care can be different for everyone, so I encourage you to find what works for you. There is no right or wrong when it comes to self-care. I welcome you to prioritize self-care in your life and make YOU and YOUR well-being a priority.