Make 2019 the Year of You

The new year brings with it so much anticipation and excitement…resolutions, goals, fresh to-do lists, and more. The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is over and we’re settling in for winter weather. Our mindset often turns to this being “the year that will be different” as we continue or resume doing all the things for everyone: packing lunches for younger kids, ensuring older kids are where they need to be when they need to be there, starting or finishing big projects at work or home.

But this year I challenge you to really making this year different by taking on a resolution you promise to keep: self-care.

I can’t express enough the importance of self-care. For me, self-care consists of non-negotiable daily or weekly habits that keep me sane and fueled to be the best mom, wife, and employee I can be. How do I take care of myself?

• I make exercise a priority. Working out helps me battle anxiety and stress, and improves my physical and mental strength to take on the tasks thrown at me each day.
• I get my hair cut and nails done regularly. It makes me feel good when I feel like I look “put together;” my confidence increases which causes me to be more comfortable taking charge on projects or speaking up in meetings.
• I book an hour long massage each month. I’ve been seeing the same massage therapist for years…she’s literally part therapist while also helping me navigate an often problematic, chronic back injury.

My husband considers me one of the most “high maintenance” women he knows, but I’m proud of it. Do I feel guilty for taking this much time to myself each day, week, or month? No. Why? Because I’ve expressed to him that while some of these things are luxuries that I’m grateful to be able to afford, others are just part of what I need to ensure my needs are met along with everyone else’s which I attend to regularly. I set clear expectations at the beginning of our marriage and do my best to book appointments at convenient times for our family’s schedule. Don’t get me wrong; I am sure to afford him time for self-care, too, but his routine and mine tend to look really different.

Speaking of my husband, when you’re mapping out what your self-care routine will look like, having a support system is crucial. Determine what you need to be your best self and clearly explain to those in your inner circle how you would most appreciate their support. Your self-care routine will ideally be consistent and hopefully non-negotiable. Does a weekly bubble bath help you relax? Does doing yoga or taking a 30-minute childless walk outside fulfill you? Write it down, make it a priority, and communicate it.

If you don’t have a readily available support system to help you on your journey to regular self-care, do your best to find ways to accommodate what you need when you can. If carving out a few extra minutes in bed by yourself on Saturday morning is what you need, prep the kids’ breakfast in advance and let them know they can get it themselves. If they’re too little to comprehend, bring them into the bedroom while you hide in your closet to enjoy some Reese’s peanut butter cups. Don’t sacrifice your sanity and well-being if a potentially simple change could make a world of difference for your self-care.

You’re the only you this world has. Be sure to take care of her to the best of your ability. And on December 31, 2019 look back with joy over the year that was different, a year in which you kept your resolution of self-care.