You Deserve To Take Care Of Yourself

Self-care is a subject that is often overlooked, but it is essential for your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It is something that I, as an artist, have been investigating deeply over the last couple of years, especially with the move and having experienced burnout and all kinds of other not-fun things. In today’s Monday Motivational Madness, I want to share some of my experiences with self-care and how it can be a vital part of your creative process.

Self-care is not just about taking care of your physical body; it is also about taking care of your mind and emotions. It is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, but if you do not take time for yourself, you will quickly feel drained, uninspired, and lacking in creativity. It is essential to take that time to reset and relax, to be in a place where you can let your creativity flow freely.

Stress has a way of compounding on itself if it is left unchecked. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to put a hard pause on everything. That means taking time out where you’re not thinking about anything, turning off your phone, and just being in the moment. If there is any part of you that is saying, “I can’t do that, I have to be on all the time,” then that’s something you need to question because it will lead to burnout.

If you cannot take three hours to stop everything, you must reevaluate your priorities. It sounds selfish, but it is not. You cannot give to anyone else or the things you want unless you take care of yourself and give to yourself first. So, take that pause for yourself and take care of yourself because you deserve it.

As artists, we often feel like we need to keep working all the time, but that is not sustainable. I am a recovering workaholic and know the dangers of putting too much pressure on yourself. You have to find a balance that works for you. That means taking time for yourself and being kind to yourself.

One of the things I find helpful is to schedule time for self-care. I put it on my calendar like any other appointment or task. It is a non-negotiable part of my day, and I stick to it. This could mean taking a walk, practicing meditation, or doing something creative that is not related to my work. Doing something that brings you joy and that you enjoy doing is essential.

Another thing I find helpful is to be mindful of what I eat and drink. Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated can significantly impact your mental and emotional well-being. When you eat well, you feel well; when you feel well, you are more creative.

Exercise is also essential for self-care. It not only helps keep you physically healthy but also has a positive impact on your mental and emotional health. Exercise is a great way to release stress and tension and to clear your mind. It can be as simple as walking, running, or doing some strength training.

Sleep is also critical for self-care. Getting enough sleep is essential for your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. If you do not get enough sleep, you will quickly feel drained and lacking in creativity. Get enough sleep and create a nighttime routine that helps you relax and wind down.

In conclusion, self-care is essential for your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It is essential to take time for yourself and be kind to yourself. This means scheduling time for self-care, being mindful of what you are feeling, and being willing to say no to others.

It’s important to remember that self-care is not just a one-time thing. It should be incorporated into your daily routine. Take small breaks throughout the day to stretch, take a walk outside, or sit and breathe. Incorporate healthy habits into your lifestyle, such as eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. It’s all about finding balance and caring for yourself in every way possible. Remember, you are worth it, and taking care of yourself is not selfish, it’s necessary. So prioritize self-care and watch how it positively impacts your life and creativity.