Self Care is Essential
As a Mindset and Motivational Coach, I help women prioritize their self-care. I learned the importance of self-care the hard way a few years ago when I was feeling depressed, exhausted, and discouraged. I wasn’t taking care of myself well, and I was using food and alcohol as a crutch to comfort and numb my feelings because of what I was going through. It was one of the most difficult times in my life – two of my best friends were failing at the same time: my mom, who was diagnosed with dementia, and a close friend, who was dying from pancreatic cancer.
The problem was I didn’t know how to get out of my own way. I was unable to do hard things because making changes felt vulnerable, and I didn’t have the strength to get better. I knew my habits were holding me back but I couldn’t move forward. It was a vicious cycle.
When my friend died, it became very clear to me that life was precious. And it was crystal clear when my mother passed 2 and a half years later, but I didn’t know what to do.
On January 1st, 2022, I made a big mindset shift. I had gone out on New Year’s Eve and drank WAY too much. That was the final straw. I was no longer going to use alcohol as a crutch. I was ready for real and lasting change. I read every book and followed every positive, upbeat influencer to help me get out of my depression. And when I began my gratitude practice, I could feel my depression lift.
I became excited and curious about my life. I signed up for two courses that were running at the same time. I took an amazing self-development course and an empowering coaching certification for women and the synergy helped me change my life.
I began doing the work, improving my habits, getting into shape, and I began a morning routine to set me up for the day. I had learned the importance of prioritizing my self and my self-care. By the end of that year I was feeling euphoric. I was thinking: “I can’t believe it. Everything is aligned. I’m pursuing my dreams!”
Although I had been coaching friends and family for decades, I became a coach to help midlife women pursue their health and happiness. I was clear about my purpose and how to help other people without losing myself in the process.
I know it is easy to set your needs aside. But I can tell you from experience that it is your responsibility to take time just for yourself or it will lead to burnout. You can prioritize yourself to finally do the things you’ve wanted to do for years and get more out of life without feeling guilty.
