The Wake-Up Call That Forced Me to Prioritize Self-Care and Find Balance in a Busy Life

My Journey From Exhaustion to Self-Care: How I’m Learning to Make Time for My Inner World and Why It’s Essential for a Healthy Life

It started with small signs like feeling exhausted all the time, having trouble sleeping, being irritable and feeling generally disconnected from everything. But I ignored this reality, thinking was a part of a busy lifestyle and tried to pivot, adapt and push through. However, my body had other plans. It was too little, too late. I collapsed, not just once, and ended up in the hospital.

It didn’t happen overnight.

In fact, this outcome was years in the making.

I have always been a high achiever of sorts, constantly juggling multiple responsibilities and tasks. I showed up for everyone else, but never myself.

While this drive and determination to be present for others was often well received and appreciated, it came at a cost no one knew about.

I never made time for myself and my inner world.

If I am being brutally honest, I convinced myself that self-care was a luxury that I couldn’t afford. But little did I know that this neglect would catch up to me.

As I lay in the hospital bed, I reflected on my habits and realized that I had been neglecting self-care in all aspects of my life. Whether it was my physical, mental, or emotional health, I had been pushing myself too hard without taking a break.

I had truly forgotten that self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity for a healthy and balanced life.

I also neglected the reality that self-care looks very different for everyone. I applied methods that seemed textbook, yet something still felt off.

This experience has taught me that balance is crucial in all areas of life.

It’s not just about managing work and personal life, but also about taking care of one’s own needs.

I am learning that it’s okay to say no and set boundaries. It’s okay to take a break and prioritize self-care. In fact, it’s necessary for our well-being.

I am making space in my life for my inner world.

I have started practicing mindfulness and meditation more regularly in the sauna at our local recreation centre of all places, which is helping me become more self-aware and in tune with my needs.

I am prioritizing my physical health by incorporating different forms of exercising regularly.

And, I recently discovered a new favourite raspberry vinegarette to enjoy more nutritious meals.

Most importantly, I am learning to listen to my body and take breaks when needed.

My recent hospitalization was a wake-up call — and a blessing.

It forced a hand in self-care and finding the balance that I know will profoundly impact my life for the better.

I am now more determined than ever to maintain balance in my life and make self-care a priority. After all, we can only take care of others when we take care of ourselves first.

This was written in response to Liberty Forrest, Author ’s invitation to share how we find, or fail to find, balance in our lives.

I invite you to also read:

Sally Prag’s story, “I’m Not Super. Just Human.”

Sirena Carroll’s story, “We’re Not So Different: Blind? Sighted? Parents.

About the Author: Mom first in everything I do. Career in local government. Writer somewhere in the mix. Editor for The Shortform on Medium. Join me and gain access to unlimited stories (using this link, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support and for helping turn my dream into a reality!