The Importance of Self-Care

We live busy lives and because of such it’s easy to get trapped in a loop. We develop this routine of moving from day-to-day checking tasks off a mental list. Essentially life gets condensed down to a series of errands rather than experiences and ultimately becomes draining. It is only natural that this is the case when we allow our existence to become dictated by our commitments rather than our wants and needs. There should be balance and there should be context. Culturally, this has become quite normal and it’s something we all do but is especially true of caregivers and career professionals alike. However, without adequate time and attention paid to our rejuvenation, this can lead to feeling mentally and emotionally void. So, the importance of self-care cannot be stated enough.

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Here’s the problem though; that loop, the routine you are lost in… it doesn’t allow for gaps in the schedule. Does it? It is all well and good saying that self-care is important but there’s no give. So, it is much easier to get overwhelmed and frustrated than deal with the actual issue at hand. At that point though, are you really the only one suffering for your lack of self-care? Even if you are, it’s still one too many people but more often I’d guess not.

To put it plainly; ignoring our needs comes at a greater cost than actually meeting them. It might not always seem like it, but it is true.

When you fail to put aside time to look after yourself you discard your general wellbeing and with that comes symptoms:

• Headaches
• Stomach aches
• Insomnia
• Muscle tension
• Irritability
• Low focus
• Poor motivation
• Depression
• Anxiety

Of course, this is not a conclusive list. It should demonstrate, however, that lack of self-care is a gateway to some very serious issues and should not be taken lightly. It seems to me much more prudent to respect the importance of self-care; take the time to do what you need to for yourself.

The Busy Papa

Also known as Aaron, The Busy Papa focuses on lifestyle, parenting and personal wellbeing content. He has two decades experience in creative writing (including several published poems) and strongly dislikes (though tolerates) tomatoes.