There’s no rulebook for self care. There’s no master list, no ultimate guide, and no defined path to work from. That’s exciting, but it can feel a little overwhelming at times. If you crave some kind of structure or a source of self care tips, these 12 steps to self care should help you.
These 12 steps to self care are not a set of rules, but more of a core set of principles to help guide you through your journey towards self confidence, self love, and personal growth. Use these 12 steps to self care as inspiration, rather than a strict program, and adapt them to suit the way you live.
12 steps to self care to remember
Ready to see what these 12 steps to self care are all about? Here are the self care tips that’ll take you from zero to further along on your self care journey.
1. Be true to yourself
Self care starts with being true to who you are. Shed yourself of the fakeness and expectations, and put who you are, your values, and what you love front and center. It’s not always easy to know who you are or what you want most, but when you do, let that guide every decision you make.
2. Set boundaries
Don’t be afraid to set boundaries with people. Avoid being a people pleaser and make your own decisions. Take advice, and listen to others’ opinions, but don’t let them overrule what your true wishes and desires are. Honor your boundaries once you’ve set them too, and don’t be afraid to say no to people.
3. Trust what feels right
Get comfortable with trusting your instincts. Often your initial thoughts are a sign of the right choice, the best option, or what you really feel about something. Balance this with reason and context, but don’t forget about your instincts.
4. Practice gratitude
Being grateful for what you have and expressing that is a great way to live. Reflect on all the positive moments in life, even if they’re tiny. Start by writing out a gratitude list, and if you decide this is something for you then writing in a nightly journal or gratitude journal is a great next step.
5. Invest in your health and wellbeing
Taking care of ourselves involves looking after our physical health, mental health, and emotional wellbeing. Try to lead a healthy lifestyle — whatever that means to you, and that’s completely personal and individual. It could be as simple as enjoying a walk every week, trying to add more colorful foods to your meals, or making sure you drink enough water every day. Keep things simple to start with.
6. Be kind to yourself
When we’re going through a tough time and need to call on self care to help us through, we can often feel guilty about it. Let go of those bad feelings and negative self-talk where you can, and be kind to yourself. Take things easy, do things according to your energy levels, and practice self love.
7. Fill your life with positive things
Surround yourself with positive things, reminders, and words. Pin up affirmations or positive quotes in your home. Fill it with indoor plants, or colorful cushions. Wear the clothes you love, and buy the records you love to hear. Go to the cafe, sing karaoke, and do anything that makes you happy.
8. Set goals and chase them
Much of self care is about taking time out to rest and refresh, but there’s also something to be said for setting goals. Think about what you want and how to get there. Plan weekly, monthly, quarterly, or yearly personal growth goals — whichever makes the most sense to you. The end goal is to live as the best version of yourself for you, whatever that looks like.
9. Surround yourself with the right people
We don’t just get joy from the things in our life but the people too. Let go of anyone that doesn’t support you or help you reach your goals. Instead, surround yourself with your biggest cheerleaders, the people that support you no matter what, and the ones that gently guide and question you when you need it.
10. Lean on others when you need to
Self care can only take us so far by ourselves. Sometimes we need to lean on others for support. Whether it’s your loved ones, friends, or a healthcare worker, these valuable people can help us through challenging times. Don’t be afraid to let them in.
11. Make time for yourself
To really embrace self care, you need to make time for yourself and some self care ideas. Carve out some time in your schedule with the help of a self care menu or even a dedicated self care Sunday. Use these moments to practice self care in its many forms — like making a playlist, baking, playing video games, or relaxing with a good book.
12. Be honest
Finally, a crucial part of self care is about being honest — not just with ourselves but with those around us. If you’re not going to finish your work to-do list in time, tell someone. If someone has hurt you, don’t be afraid to let them know. Being honest and transparent can go a long way towards helping us feel like our best selves.
Make more room for yourself with these twelve steps to self care
Self care isn’t simple, but it doesn’t have to feel difficult. Follow these 12 steps to self care and remember them whenever you feel a little lost on your journey or need a reminder of what matters most.
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