avatarKristen Abram

Summary

The article emphasizes the importance of self-care as a daily practice to prevent burnout and enhance overall well-being, challenging the societal stigma that labels self-care for women as selfish.

Abstract

In a society that often glorifies busyness and neglects personal well-being, the article "Self-Care is Not Selfish" advocates for the necessity of self-care, particularly for women who may face societal judgment for taking personal time. The author, Kristen Abram, argues that even brief daily intervals dedicated to self-rejuvenation can significantly improve one's mental and emotional state. She suggests that self-care is a personalized routine, varying from reading a book to taking a walk, and should be as integral a part of one's daily schedule as other responsibilities. By investing in self-care, individuals not only benefit themselves but also positively influence their relationships with friends and family.

Opinions

  • The author believes that self-care is essential for maintaining mental and emotional health, countering the notion that it is a selfish act.
  • There is a societal double standard where men are socially permitted to take time for personal activities, while women engaging in similar self-care practices may be criticized.
  • Self-care should be a regular, daily commitment rather than an occasional indulgence.
  • The definition of self-care is subjective and can range from exercise and baking to journaling and napping.
  • The author asserts that everyone, especially women, should reject the stigma associated with self-care and prioritize their well-being.
  • Engaging in self-care activities is seen as a way to recharge and can lead to long-term benefits for the individual and their loved ones.

Self-Care is Not Selfish

Image courtesy of Maddie Bazzocco on Unsplash

In a world where busyness and chaos have become the norm, how can we reasonably expect to stay centered and calm? Through practicing self-care of course. If we are not taking the time to care for ourselves, we will very quickly find that we become burnt out and frazzled which is no good for anyone, including those that we hold dear.

Somewhere along the way, it became socially taboo to invest time into taking care of yourself, particularly for women. Somehow it is still seen as acceptable for a man to go out and partake in a game of golf with friends, but if we ladies take time out for ourselves, we are seen as selfish or neglectful of our other duties. Well ladies, it’s time to break that stigma and start taking care of ourselves too!

I am not talking about once in a blue moon events here, I am talking about scheduling in time for yourself each and every day. Even if it is as little as 10–15 minutes to take a time out and meditate, do it. If you can find the time to do all of the other duties your day calls for like changing diapers, cleaning house, cooking meals, and/or making conference calls, you can reserve time for yourself too. Trust me, you are worth it and the benefits will pay off in the long run.

What is self-care? Well, that definition is going to be a little different for each of us. What I find relaxing and rejuvenating, you might not. I like to read a book for at least 30 minutes a day, but you might hate reading. Ultimately, self-care is something that is going to help you recharge your batteries.

Self-care ideas:

  • Exercise for 30 minutes — this can be any exercise you enjoy.
  • Buy yourself something nice
  • Take a hot bath — add essential oils or a bath bomb to make it even more relaxing
  • Do some baking
  • Write a journal entry to get all your stresses out
  • Go for a walk
  • Get a pedicure
  • Take a nap
  • Color or draw a picture
  • Phone a friend for a chat
  • Dance to your favorite song(s)
  • Watch a movie you love
  • Dress up just because you can
  • Give yourself a foot massage

I could go on and on with this list, but I think you get where I am going with it. Just take some time each and every day to spend on yourself. You will feel so much better in the long-run, and the ripple effect it has on your friends and family won’t go unnoticed either.

What are your favorite self-care activities? I would love to hear from you in the comments below!

Thanks for reading!

Originally published at http://kristenabram.com on September 28, 2020.

Not only is Kristen a Certified Master Life Coach, but she is also a freelance writer on the side. Like what you read here? Check out her freelancing page by clicking here:

Self Care
Self Improvement
Self Love
Love Yourself
Life
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