How to Build Good Self-Care Habits

(Even if You’re Insanely Busy)
 

When I say the words “healthy habits,” what comes to mind? If you’re like most folks, I bet you immediately conjured images of eating veggies and working out every morning. 

If you’ve been in this community for long at all though, you know there’s more to your health than just eating and moving . . . we have to prioritize recharging as well!

As women, it can be hard for us to prioritize self-care habits. Sure, you know that taking care of your mental health is important...but hey, everything else is important too! Whether it’s work, childcare, cleaning, cooking, traveling, social obligations, or something totally different, your plate is full to the brim. I get that. But even so, building good self-care habits is a crucial component of achieving lifelong health.

That said, here are a few of my best tips for building good self-care habits EVEN if you feel like you don’t have a single extra moment in your day.

1. Let your time do double duty.

How do I love multitasking?? Let me count the ways… If I only ever focused on self-care when I had extra time, it would never ever get done. The next best thing is finding ways to make my time count twice. I may not be able to take a client call and get a massage at the same time, but I CAN take a client call and enjoy a nice face mask at the same time. 

Look for opportunities like these in your life—reading while you commute on the subway, meditating while you shower, or listening to business podcasts while you workout are all great examples of maximizing your time.

2. Learn to say no.

I know it feels like you can’t possible say no to anything . . . But be honest with yourself for a moment. If you really examine your schedule, there are *probably* some things you could technically let go of.

Spending quality time with your kids? Being present in your career? Attending your grandma’s 98th birthday dinner? Those are likely non-negotiables. But heading up your neighborhood’s holiday decoration committee? Doing your own grocery shopping (as opposed to opting for delivery)? Showing up for every single party you’ll be invited to between now and the New Year? Those might be opportunities to graciously decline and save your energy.

3. Know when to ask for help.

Much like saying no, asking for help isn’t as easy as it sounds. Often times, it takes a lot of humility, trust, and strength to admit when enough is enough. But like it or not, you DO have your limits. If you need to pipe up and ask your partner for more help at home, ask a co-worker for assistance with a project, ask a friend with help planning a special event, etc, there’s no shame in that! 

4. Choose self-care activities that get you “the most bang for your buck,” so to speak.

I love to remind my clients of this: Self-care doesn’t have to be some huge, schedule-altering thing. Expensive massages, spa days, and mini-vacays are swell, but they aren’t the only way to relax. Find small activities that go a long way towards recharging your batteries. For me, my morning workout is everything. For you, that might mean finding time to listen to a beloved podcast, paint your nails, or have a cup of tea on the back deck. Be realistic about your time and resources, and do your best to make those work for you.

Do you have a go-to wintertime self-care activity? Do you have questions about squeezing in “me-time” this time of year? I’d love to hear from you! Leave your answer in the comments, and don’t forget--you’re always welcome to email me at dawn@dawnmcgee.guru if you’re looking for some personalized advice.