Sometimes you need to put yourself first in order to be the best version of yourself for others. September is the perfect month to practice prioritizing some “me” time, because it’s National Self-Care Awareness Month. While it’s easy to get wrapped up in checking in on others, it’s important for your mental health to practice self-care. Check out these ways to promote self-care in your life, so you can walk away feeling refreshed and ready to do more good in the world.
1. Set Goals for Yourself
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and healthy self-care habits follow suit. Find something that makes you happy, and start by setting a small goal of doing that activity every day. This could be something as simple as reading a book for 15 minutes or taking a walk around the block. Remember that a small goal can make a big difference in your life. These things add up.
2. Try Meditating
Life can be noisy. Many people go an entire day without complete silence. From radios in the car to kids running around, there is constantly noise to distract our thoughts. Take time to center yourself through meditation. There are many apps out there you can download to your phone to help guide your meditation journey. Plus, you can meditate by using just minutes of your day. This is a fast and easy way to focus on yourself.
3. Check on a Friend
It’s easy to lose touch with friends in our lives, especially with something as crazy as a global pandemic happening. Think back—when was the last time you called somebody simply to catch up? Pick a friend you may be missing, and then pick up the phone to give them a call. It can be good for you AND them to have a touch base.
4. Do Something Good for Others
Yes, self-care awareness month is about your mental health. But did you know that doing something good for others can help boost endorphins? Even the smallest acts of kindness can provide a boost to your day. Try one of these small things to brighten somebody else’s day, and your day at the same time:
- Write a note of appreciation for a coworker.
- Pay for the person behind you next time you’re in a drive-thru.
- Bake something and share.
- Do a chore somebody else has been putting off.
- Pick up litter in your community.
- Donate to your favorite organization.
5. Practice Saying No
The word ‘no’ often gets a bad rap, but it could be vital for your mental health. Instead of devoting yourself to five separate projects where you’re stretched too thin, go all-in on the project that brings you the most joy and excitement. Everybody needs a break, and you should actively consider whether or not taking on something new or attending an event will be good for your health and well-being.
If nothing else, remember these things as you focus on yourself. It’s better to start small and be consistent with your self-care habits, building them over time. This ensures you stick to it. And make sure to set aside time to focus on you, so that you can be the best version of yourself out in the world! Just because it’s called “self-care” doesn’t mean you can’t help others in the process. And last but not least, it’s okay to say “no” when you aren’t able to be fully “present” in a project or at an event. Now take these tips and start practicing!
