I used to think that “Caring for Me” was so self-centered, self-absorbed, selfish and so very egotistical. Moreover, it always related to some bigheaded person who thought the universe revolved around him/her. That was until I started Coaching and suddenly realized the importance of Self-Care. Today, Self-Care has become one of the Key Pieces in my Coaching Practice.
Why is “Caring for Me” Important? In one of my training sessions, I use a metaphor of a Nicely Wrapped Gift-Box. Now imagine this present represents you and what so ever you can offer to others…your time, your attention, your love, etc. What if you are tight on time (as we always are) or just too stretched to love due to stress from work, how will the Gift-Box be? Will it be Full or somewhat EMPTY? It’s so true…’we can’t give what we don’t have’.
In today’s busy and extremely fast paced and demanding “microwave-I-want-it-now” society, we are all bound for burn-out as we run ourselves to E (like on your petrol tank indicator). Hence, we need to begin identifying the areas in our lives that are perpetually drying our tank out and in every aspect too…emotionally, intellectually, physically and spiritually. We then need to run to specific places of refuge to “drink” and be “refreshed”. Yes, we need to begin to put back the “care” into our lives and not wait until it is too late…like on the hospital bed.
Take practical steps Today to begin Caring for “Me”. If you don’t do it, who will?
Go for a walk, a run, a swim, escape somewhere with a book, watch a movie, eat at a fancy restaurant, sleep in, write a long entry in your diary/journal, draw/sketch/paint, go for a massage/facial/manicure, give yourself a hug…and loads more.
Yes…let’s learn the art of Self-Care. It is the beginning of a new YOU.
Great Resource: Life Makeovers by Cheryl Richardson (buy it, read it, live it…)
