How Self-Care Can Aid Your Quest for Personal Growth
By: Brad Krause
As the saying goes, change is good — especially when the reason is attached to personal growth. Whether you want to start your own business, go back to school, train for a marathon, or pack your bags and travel for a year, it’s important that you clearly define your focus in order to grow. Next, put together a detailed plan outlining all the steps it will take to help you reach your goal. One you begin to make your dream a reality, be prepared to exercise patience and determination while anticipating some setbacks. One way to keep yourself on track is to implement self-care into your daily life — even if you’re busier than you ever were before. Here are some tactics that should be top of mind.
Physical
By now, you probably know that diet and exercise contribute to weight management, lower risk of diseases, decreased anxiety and depression, and increased energy levels, but there are other benefits that can assist someone going through a life change. Physical activity has also been proven to boost self-confidence and self-esteem and improve cognitive function. On the nutrition front, beefing up your diet with specific foods that increase brain power can help you stay focused on the task at hand. Wild salmon, blueberries, olive and coconut oils, turmeric, broccoli, spinach, eggs, asparagus, kale, and pumpkin seeds are all good options. It’s important to note that these forms of self-care are helpful for recovery survivors, too — sobriety is also a powerful form self-growth.
Emotional
It’s important to find an outlet to channel your feelings in an effort to prevent an addition problem of any kind. While relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation can be helpful, hobbies such as drawing, playing music, writing, or sewing can be just as beneficial but in a different way. Examples of some other activities include practicing self-compassion, being responsible for your actions, taking an essential oil-infused bath, creating a gratitude jar, and learning how to accept a compliment — which leads to truly accepting one’s self. Of course, if you’re having a difficult time emotionally, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a therapist.
Spiritual
Spirituality doesn’t necessarily mean church, though prayer is an outlet for many — approximately 51 percent of Americans attend church on a regular basis. It’s also about having the realization of your place in the universe and its connection to a larger purpose. Some easy ways to tap into your spiritual self include giving up control, looking for increased meaning in certain situations, maintaining a sense of purpose, and gaining perspective so you can clarify your values and goals. Meditation and yoga can be helpful vehicles to bring out these feelings and emotions, so find some moments of stillness and peace in order to concentrate on your intention. If heading to the yoga studio on a regular basis doesn’t fit into your schedule or budget, find a relaxing, clutter-free place within your home where you can collect your thoughts.
Achieving a work-life balance is the key to reaching your goal while finding time for self-care practices. This is mandatory in order to prevent burnout, illness, and compromised relationships. Not to mention, taking some time for yourself and loved ones can actually make you more productive when you go back to focusing on it. Make sure you’re taking regular breaks throughout the day, planning a long weekend or vacation once in a while, and not saying “yes” to every request that comes your way — but not alienating yourself from others either. Remember, self-care is a lifelong practice that will become more natural with time.
Photo Credit: Pixabay
