How do you feel about the phrase, “Take care of yourself so you can take care of others?” Bunk. With the exception of your children – underage children at that – the only person you can truly take care of is you.
So, how do women these days practice the art of self-care? There’s tons of people telling us everyday how we should be; more assertive, better cooks, relentless lovers, and the list goes on. But what about the relationship a woman has with herself? Where does that fall on the continuum of self-care?
Me, Myself and I: Starting From Square One
The beginning of truly taking care of self begins with acceptance. You need to accept the beauty of you. Next, you need to be honest. This is not easy. Be honest about your stubbornness, your need to control, and yes, your habit of putting others always before yourself.
Third, realize your own power. Power comes from measuring yourself by your own standards. You have the power to change you and your situation. Read the books, listen to the tapes but in the end it is you who is steering the way. Nobody knows for certain who you are and want to be, think, have or do. That’s just you baby!
Fourth, the next step in self-care is surrounding yourself with people who appreciate you. Stop trying to get others to like you. They never really do in the end so why waste your precious time and energy? If you can’t find people who accept you for you then look a little harder. They’re there but just hiding.
Finally, don’t be afraid to be alone. Solitude and self-discovery go hand in hand. Design your space. Watch Eat Pray Love with Julia Roberts. Follow your journey wherever it takes you. There’s no room for judgment.
