Self-care isn’t a luxury – it’s the foundation of mental wellbeing. However, it’s often the first thing we forget when life gets busy. Here are a few tips to help you start putting yourself first.

Check in with yourself
Self-awareness is the starting point for self-care, so take a few moments each morning to ask “How am I feeling, and what do I need today?” Because your needs will naturally shift over time, remember to keep checking in with yourself to make sure you’re always supporting yourself in the right way.

Decide what self-care means to you
Self-care looks different for everyone. You might want to take a break from social media for a day, spend quality time with friends or family, or just give yourself an hour to rest and relax. It’s not what you do that matters, but the fact that you’re showing yourself care and compassion in a way that feels meaningful for you.

Create boundaries to protect your peace
While saying “yes” sometimes feels easier, overcommitting can lead to exhaustion, overwhelm, and burnout. And although prioritizing your own needs may not always come naturally, it’s an important step towards protecting your time and energy. Reminding yourself of this can be helpful when you’re trying to build the courage to say “no.”

Schedule time for self-care
If carving our time for yourself feels difficult, try scheduling self-care into your routine. Each day, block out 15-30 minutes for a walk, reading, or another activity that helps you recharge or unwind, and treat this time as non-negotiable. If it isn’t marked on your calendar, it’s all too easy for other priorities to take over.