The word selfish often comes with a negative connotation attached. Selfish means we are only thinking of ourselves, doing what we want and in our own way. The moment we decide to do something for ourselves or choose a path that brings us joy, we are being selfish. Well what if being selfish is actually something positive we are doing for our well-being??
Many of us work really hard at our jobs, putting in long hours. Then some of us come home to families we take care of or loved ones who need us. We are always putting the needs of others before ourselves, or we are trying to snag that promotion at work, complete that project, show our boss how amazing we are. All of this makes it difficult to think of ourselves as a priority.
This is where selfish takes a turn for me. How can I perform at my best if I’m always depleted? You can’t fill from an empty cup. We need to learn to show ourselves some love and practice self-care. This however is easier said than done. Many of us aren’t even sure how to put ourselves first, even if it’s just for an hour. I’m also not talking about doing anything drastic here, just carving out time to do something that makes you happy.
How can we put more self-care in our lives? Now I understand that not everyone is single and yes, we all have responsibilities, but I also believe we have a responsibility to ourselves to make sure we feel good every now and then. Here are a few suggestions that can easily be incorporated into your day, week or month.
- Take a bath with bubbles, salts, music, and quiet
- Try a face mask (maybe even while in the bath!)
- Read a book alone for 30 minutes
- Stay in bed an extra half hour alone
- Meditate for 20 minutes
- Have a girl’s night out dinner
- Take a girl’s weekend trip
- Watch 1 hour of a show you want to watch
- Get a massage
- Mani/Pedi
- Take a walk alone
- Join a book club or community group with a weekly or monthly meeting
- Try a new fitness class
- Buy your favorite dessert and eat it all without sharing
- Buy the dress, bag, shoes, concert tickets, Broadway tickets
- Go to the movies alone
- Take a cooking class
- Learn a new hobby
I’m sure I could keep going but you get the point. Do something for yourself that brings you joy, helps you relax, makes you smile and breathe deeply. It is okay to think about yourself, take time for yourself and do something for yourself. This makes you a better person because your needs have been met. So, this week take a suggestion from me or add a new one to the list and go wild being selfish.
Wellness Wednesday,
Tash
