Make a commitment to taking care of yourself, just like you do for others.  Recognize that by taking care of your well-being, you are well equipped to care for those around you without compromising what’s important to you.  You’re creating a ripple effect of positivity in the lives of those around you by taking time for yourself.  When you feel grounded and fulfilled, you have more to give—whether it’s love, attention, or support. It’s time to change your tune because you show up better for others when you put yourself first.  It’s win-win for everyone!

Consistency is the key to making affirmations effective. Repeat them daily and often — you can set the tone for your day in the morning, during moments of doubt to regain focus, or at night to seal your day with positivity. You can say them aloud and write them in a journal.  Or both. It is especially helpful to put your affirmations where you can see them often, like on your mirror or as a screensaver. This will reinforce them when you are not saying them as part of your daily routines.

Written by the American theologian Reinhold Niebuhr, the Serenity Prayer is more relevant than ever.  Whether you’re familiar with it or hearing it for the first time, its simplicity and depth have the ability to bring comfort and clarity, especially during times of uncertainty or stress.

If you take a long hard look at the various areas of your life, are there some areas that definitely need improvement?  How much better would you feel if you made a commitment to yourself and prioritized what matters to you?  The first step is to recognize where you are now.  You can’t determine where to go if you don’t know where you are right now.  Starting a new routine or setting a goal is a form of self care.  What if you started now?

Starting a daily journaling practice doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Begin by setting aside just five to ten minutes each day. Find a quiet place, grab a notebook, and take some time for yourself.  You can use it to get organized or to journal about something that is on your mind. Don’t worry about grammar or structure—just write it down or type it out.