24 Jun Make Self-Care a Priority, Not a Luxury

Self-care is not a luxury, it’s a priority.

We attribute self-care to fancy face masks, glossy manicures, or a freshly shaved beard. But self-care is so much more.

It involves acting on behalf of our best interest, even if sometimes that clashes with what society expects.

“Friday nights are made for going out!” a friend might shriek once out of the office. “Grab a drink, maybe two?!” they insist on the way to the bar. “Come on, he’s a 6, you’re allowed to have fun — take him home!”

But all you wanted to was curl up on the couch and watch a series or read that book you bought at the airport with the nice cover you have been meaning to start.

And now you’re out, trying to smile, down another drink, and trying to will that guy into turning into a 10 with the power of imagination.

But it won’t work, you belong where you feel most comfortable and safe. This is self-care.

I know it, my anxiety prevented me from staying home for an irrational fear of missing out. Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, etc. all prevented me from enjoying a night in because I kept scrolling through people’s “amazing” nights of partying and drinking.

I kept thinking if I didn’t go out, I’d be a loser and end up alone.

I also thought I could find my “other half” by going out, getting tipsy, and meeting new people.

Self-care is knowing you are not searching for your other half. You are not a half.

You are whole and need love, self-love.

If you realized how powerful your thoughts are in changing your mood and surroundings, you would think a whole different way.

Try to embrace your emotions, wallow in your feelings, and pick yourself up only when you’re ready and have made peace with whom you are and where you want to be.

Grab a face mask if it helps, pull out that scented candle if it puts you in the right mood, and relax.

I won’t tell you to meditate, I’ll tell you to pinpoint what’s wrong, find the root cause of your emotions, and slowly break down all the reasons you believe you are not enough. This is self-care.

Love yourself, before you can love others.

Once you love and accept yourself, your heart will naturally open to others.