Prioritizing Yourself
Why Women Need to Make Time for Self-Care
I recently read a New York Times article highlighting a common challenge for many women: the tendency to prioritize the needs of others over their own health. The article noted that women often place work, family, and social obligations ahead of themselves—even when it has lasting impacts on their health.
I can relate! While I don’t have children, I’ve experienced the strain of putting work, relationships, and social commitments above my own self-care. The result? Burnout. Have you ever fantasized about quitting your job and escaping to a deserted island just to get a break from all the demands? I have.
To climb out of that exhausting cycle, I didn’t flee to an island—though it was tempting. Instead, I started carving out small pockets of time throughout my day just for me. It began with something simple: cooking more meals at home and saying “no” to some dinner invitations. Eating cleaner foods boosted my energy because I knew exactly what I was putting into my body.
Feeling better motivated me to expand my self-care efforts. I started waking up 45 minutes earlier to hit the gym before work, planning active outings with friends, and integrating mindfulness through a quick, five-minute morning meditation. Those small, consistent acts made a big difference.
But life is unpredictable. A career transition disrupted my routine, pulling me back toward old habits that threatened burnout. I recognized what was happening and chose to implement one non-negotiable self-care practice each day, no matter what. This commitment helped me regain my sense of self and encouraged me to build other non-negotiable habits into my schedule, even amid the demands of a growing career.
The Times article shared a startling statistic: only 4% of mothers viewed their own health as a measure of success, while 31% prioritized their children’s health in that way. This struck me deeply. We can only show up as our best selves for our children, colleagues, and communities if we first take care of ourselves. Prioritizing self-care sets an example and creates a ripple effect.
So, start small. Even if you have just five minutes, use that time for you. Make self-care a priority, not a luxury. Remember, you are important. Make time for yourself—you deserve it.
