Why Self-Care Feels Like Another Task on Your To-Do List (And How to Fix It)
The Truth About Self-Care: It Takes Effort
Self-care isn’t all bubble baths and face masks—it’s a daily practice of respecting your body, mind, and soul enough to nurture them. It takes effort to care for ourselves, nourish ourselves, move our bodies, and process emotions. In a world that glorifies productivity, slowing down to meet your own needs can feel frustrating, even indulgent.
If you’ve ever felt like self-care is just another thing to do—or even worse, something you “should” be better at—you’re not alone. The truth is, self-care requires a level of self-discipline, but not in the way you might think.
Why Self-Care Feels So Hard for High Achievers
Many high-achievers struggle with self-care because they approach it the same way they do work—something to be optimized and perfected. But self-care isn’t about being good at it. It’s about learning to treat yourself the way you deserve to be treated, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Years ago, I decided to approach self-care as an experiment, wondering what it would feel like to truly prioritize myself. That experiment turned into routines that have lasted through life’s seasons. The key? Small, sustainable acts of self-care—not grand gestures, but the daily choices that add up over time.
Redefining Self-Care: Small Acts That Make a Big Impact
Real self-care isn’t about escaping your life—it’s about creating a life that doesn’t require constant escape. It looks like:
✅ Drinking enough water throughout the day
✅ Showering and nourishing your body with regular meals
✅ Moving in ways that feel good—stretching, walking, or simply breathing deeply
✅ Speaking to yourself with kindness and encouragement
✅ Journaling or talking about your emotions instead of bottling them up
Self-care is in the way you treat yourself, support yourself, and love yourself—even in the smallest moments.
How to Make Self-Care Feel Less Like a Chore
Instead of thinking of self-care as another item on your to-do list, reframe it as a way to respect and care for yourself. You don’t have to earn it. You don’t have to do it perfectly. You just have to start.
If you’re struggling with feeling overwhelmed by self-care—or feeling guilty for needing rest—therapy can help. Let’s talk about creating a version of self-care that actually works for you.
