Fill Your Cup First: Self-Care Habits for a More Fulfilling Life
February is often recognized as a month of love and romance complete with images of red roses, romantic dinners and heartfelt gestures towards our loved ones. However, amidst all this outward expression of love it’s a great time to remember the importance of self-love and self-care. After all, how can we genuinely care for others if we don’t first care for ourselves?
"You can't pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first."
~ Mandy Hale
Self-care is not sel-fish and can deepen and enrich our lives beyond measure. Let’s explore some transformative self-care practices that have not only enriched my life but have profoundly changed it.
Spend time with like-minded women
I recently gave myself the gift of spending time with women that I like, have fun with, admire and inspire me. I make a point to spend time with women that keep me sharp! We traveled through Italy for 17 days. Our journey was filled with laughter, storytelling and profound discussions about life, business and personal growth. In the fall we rented a house in Sedona, and this winter I attended a five-day speaker mastermind and went on a mastermind cruise with a group of some of my favorite women. Surrounding ourselves with like-minded women who uplift and inspire us is a powerful form of self-care. It reminds us that we are not alone but connected, respected and loved.
Get a mentor or coach
Investing in a mentor or coach can be a catalyst for your personal and professional growth. Whether your goal is to enhance your skills, write a book, or refine your social media presence, having someone to guide you can make a big difference
Take a walk and smell the seasons
Nature has a way of grounding us. Recently, I was reminded of a childhood memory of walking outside after a rainstorm, inhaling the earthy scent of wet leaves and fresh air. This simple act brought back a sense of peace and nostalgia that I have neglected in my adulty life. I make it a point to take walks and truly immerse myself in nature, feel the breeze and appreciate the changing seasons. It’s great for the soul
Dress one step up for the occasion
Have you ever noticed how dressing well can influence your mood? I always strive to dress better than what the occasion calls for. This practice not only boosts my confidence but also attracts positive attention from others. When you elevate your appearance, you naturally elevate your demeanor and energy. Dressing with intention can transform any gathering into an opportunity for connection and fun. It’s about feeling good in your skin and inviting others to engage with you on a deeper level
Build your allies
In life (and business), we need a support system, people who believe in us and our aspirations. Building a network of allies, whether they are friends, family or colleagues is essential for personal growth. These individuals uplift us, encourage us, and stand by us during challenging times. Sometimes the old saying “It’s not what you know, but who you know rings true.” Allies are some of life’s greatest assets.
Let things go
Holding onto grudges or negative feelings can weigh us down and detract us from our happiness. One of my favorite self-care practices is learning to let things go. We often don’t have the complete picture when it comes to conflicts or misunderstandings. By releasing these burdens, we can create space for positivity and joy. Letting go is liberating and allows us to focus on what truly matters, our well-being and relationships.
We don’t have to be right
The desire to always be right can be exhausting and detrimental to our relationships. It’s beneficial to let others have their way, whether in an argument or a simple decision like choosing a restaurant. By adopting this mindset, we open ourselves up to learning new perspectives and experiences. It fosters a sense of harmony in our interactions, allowing us to grow and evolve as individuals.
Clear things off your calendar when necessary or you just need a break
Today’s fast paced world often leads us to overcommit and overwhelm ourselves. It’s essential to recognize when you need a break and clear your calendar when necessary. Rescheduling meetings, postponing deadlines or simply opting for takeout instead of cooking can provide some much-needed downtime or a lighter schedule we all deserve. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your well-being over obligations. Giving yourself the gift of time is one of the most profound acts of self-care.