Are you over the self-care message?

My calendar is full this week with workshop delivery and projects that need deep work and focused attention. Those little rituals that bolster my physical and mental state could easily slip with more to get done than usual.

I could skip the gym this once - or this week. I could overlook my yoga or get some takeaway because I am a bit too tired to cook. I could work over the weekend instead of looking after my health and my home and enjoying time with friends.

That pull to get all the work done can be so compelling. And the idea that looking after yourself is selfish is deeply ingrained.

This morning, a slight tickle in my throat made me realise that doing what was in front of me wasn’t the same as doing what was important. Without feeling my best, I can’t get anything done. So even though the whole “self-care” thing can start to grate, it’s what will keep you feeling great.

Yes, we know about getting good sleep, the Mediterranean diet, exercising, staying connected to people and nature, and having fun.

I can’t tell you how much it annoys me that despite everything I have researched, known, and written about for some time, I still find myself tempted to take a shortcut with my health and well-being.

If we want to make work less sh*t and have an amazing work experience, we need to look after ourselves and each other.

Stay well this winter. Rug up, rest, move about and have some fun.