In the early years of my career out of college, I found myself caught in a cycle of eat, sleep, work, repeat. Despite having decent hours and a thriving work life, I pushed myself to the limit and eventually burned out. I neglected my personal life, lost sight of my goals, and became irritable, which strained my relationships with those who cared about me. Every evening at 6 pm, all I wanted to do was go home, crawl into bed, and cry.

But I realized I was only 26 years old, with several decades of work ahead of me. It became clear that I needed to prioritize self-care. 

So why is self-care important?

1. Manages stress, increases happiness, and improves mental health
2. Improves focus and productivity
3. Builds and sustains stronger relationships
4. Strengthens the immune system

So here I am, three years after my burnout, ready to share some time-saving self-care ideas to help you in your busy lifestyle.

Time-Saving Self-Care Ideas:

1. Incorporate simple activities into your daily routine:
   • Practice mindfulness meditation before bed
   • Start your day with morning stretches
   • Make your bed to set a positive tone for the day

2. Take small breaks during the day:
   • Go for an afternoon coffee run
   • Take a quick walk in a nearby park
   • Listen to uplifting music or podcasts
   • Try deep breathing exercises (bonus points for using essential oils!).

3. Incorporate weekly/monthly activities (something to look forward to!):
   • Treat yourself to a relaxing bath instead of a quick shower
   • Light some aromatherapy candles for a soothing ambiance
   • Schedule a massage to unwind and rejuvenate
   • Engage in exercise that you enjoy, whether it’s cardio, weights, Zumba, pilates, tennis, or anything else that gets you moving!

4. Establish a bedtime routine (prioritize sleep!):
   • Avoid using technology in the bedroom
   • Read a book to relax your mind
   • Dim the lights to create a calming atmosphere
   • Work on a hobby that brings you joy and helps you unwind

But I understand that you might feel overwhelmed and struggle to find the time and energy for self-care. 

Here are some strategies to help you find time for self-care:

1. Block off time in your calendar dedicated to self-care activities
2. Identify moments during your work hours when you can practice self-care, such as standing in line during lunch or taking a walk to the pantry for water or snacks
3. Multitask – e.g. listen to uplifting music while exercising
4. Find an accountability partner, either in person or online, to practice self-care together, stay motivated, and share ideas

Remember, it won’t be easy, but discipline plays a significant role in turning self-care into a habit. Self-care is crucial for everyone, especially busy individuals, to help us navigate life’s marathon. It’s never too late to start, so why not give it a try now? Your well-being is worth it!