Understanding Self-Care
We usually think about “self-care” in terms of indulgent activities, which can include bubble baths, spa days, or Netflix binges. However, proper self-care involves more than these surface-level activities. It’s about intentionally taking actions that replenish your mental, emotional, and physical energy. Self-care includes getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, or taking a 10-minute break if you feel overwhelmed. You consciously take the time to check in with yourself and honor what your body and mind need. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it’s essential for survival. If you don’t care for yourself, you can’t fully care for others, your work, or your passions.
The Foundation of Self-Love
Let’s shift our focus to self-love, the foundation on which self-care rests. Self-love is about how you speak to yourself and how you view your worth. It’s not about thinking you’re perfect. Instead, it’s about accepting yourself, flaws and all.
Ask yourself: When was the last time you appreciated who you are? Consider all the challenges you’ve overcome and the small victories you’ve achieved. Self-love means granting yourself the same grace, compassion, and encouragement you would offer your best friend.
Adopting self-love practices can initially feel unfamiliar, especially if you’ve been critical of yourself for a long time. Begin with small steps: compliment yourself and celebrate your progress—no matter how tiny. Learn to forgive yourself when you fall short. Here’s the truth: You deserve love and kindness from others, but most importantly, from yourself.
A Lifelong Practice
Self-care and self-love are not destinations to arrive at; they are lifelong practices. There will be days you may forget or struggle, and that’s perfectly okay. Be patient with yourself. Take a breath, listen to your needs, and remember: You are worthy of your care, love, and time.
Begin Today
Embrace the practice of self-care and self-love. Start today, start now. It’s an excellent way to begin your day.
Highlights
[00:00] Introduction to Self-Care and Self-Love
[00:18] Understanding True Self-Care
[01:05] The Importance of Self-Love
[01:42] Practical Tips for Self-Love
[02:09] Conclusion and Final Thoughts
[02:36] Closing Remarks
Resources:
The S.O.A.R. to Success Deck: 50 Cards to Elevate Your Life and Achieve Your Goals https://www.andreacmclean.com/product/the-s-o-a-r-success-deck-50-cards-to-elevate-your-life-and-achieve-your-goals/
Decide to Be Your Future Self: A Journey of Transformation https://www.andreacmclean.com/product/decide-to-be-your-future-self-a-journey-of-transformation/
FLAP Your Way to Success https://www.andreacmclean.com/product/flap-your-way-to-success-paperback/
Get Your Own Copy of Decide to Be Your Future Self: A Journey of Transformation
Decide to Be Your Future Self: A Journey of Transformation is a practical guide to becoming the best version of yourself.
2024 Storytrade Winner in the Motivational/Self-Help Category
Do you want to live a more fulfilling and successful life? Do you want to become the best version of yourself?
If so, then you need to read Decide to Be Your Future Self: A Journey of Transformation. This book will show you how to make a decision to become your future self and what are some of the steps and some of the things you need to consider and deal with as you go on that journey.
$29.95
