Just do It
As health care providers we always put the needs of others first.
Although you have been reading about, speaking about, listening to others talk about self- care, you still have not yet incorporated it into your daily actions. We do not need to discuss why it has not happened. Let’s just look at how you can get started today or even better, right now.
Your myriads of excuses are no longer necessary. Instead I wish to suggest these 3 statements:
I used to dodge doing self-care.
I no longer need to dodge it anymore.
Starting today I do self-care daily.
How painful are these three statements for you to say?
Come on, say them and mean them. These sentences actually address two frequently used excuses for not practicing self-care. One, don’t know why, I just don’t do it. Second, I’ll start doing it next week.
There are scores of actions to implement. Most actions neither require much additional time in your day, nor do they require additional expenses.
Suggested Actions:
Take the stairs down to your car as you leave work, and skip using the elevator. Note the change in your breathing.
Take s full body stretch privately in the bathroom before leaving your job.
Renew your lipstick application.
Look in the mirror at work and quietly give yourself a smile which will be returned. Repeat. Another is sure to follow.
Practice saying no while looking at yourself in the mirror. The more you practice it, the easier it becomes. Remember to say it with determination. Your courage will be strengthened. I hope this blog will inspire and motivate you to show yourself some self-love. You may even influence your family, colleagues, and clients. The whole world will benefit.