Self-Care in September – Part 3

This week, Self-Care in September again encouraged us to be introspective by defining our core values, accepting and making peace with our flaws as well as having the courage to ask for help when we need it.

Self-Care in September – Part 3

DAY 16 – DEFINE YOUR CORE VALUES.

Do you know what your core values are? Core values highlight what we stand for and believe in. The standards by which we live our life. Take time to reflect on these questions and write down your answers:

• What values are essential to your life?
• What values represent your primary way of being?
• What values are essential to supporting your inner self?

DAY 17 – BUY THE SHOES! LIFE IS TOO SHORT.

An important part of self-care is to do things that bring us joy in life. Don’t live with ‘I wish I had done that’, ‘I should have done that’, because we can’t go back and change things. What we can do is make every day count and wring out every ounce of joy in each day. Life is too short so what is something you can do today to find joy and happiness.

DAY 18 – PRACTICE DAILY MINDFULNESS – BREATHE.

Sometimes, it feels the the concept of Mindfulness has become just another fad or buzz word. I find this a shame because Mindfulness adds so much value to our well-being. Forget the hype and take some time each day to think and breathe. Some people find journaling a good way to collect their thoughts, others just like to sit quietly and think. Mindfulness reduces stress, allows us to stop and just be in the moment and can bring richness to our lives.

DAY 19 – MAKE PEACE WITH YOUR FLAWS.

In Self-Care in September Day 5 the daily tip was to let go of perfectionism. Following on from that is to make peace with our flaws. Yes newsflash – we are human and we aren’t perfect! Some flaws can be endearing but most of them are not. We all have shortcomings. Instead of putting the focus on the negative or completely ignoring it, reflect on your shortcomings and accept that they exist. You can change if you want to but first you have to make peace and find acceptance. With self-acceptance comes self-confidence.

DAY 20 – HELP SOMEONE ELSE.

‘I thought this was about self-care?’ I hear you say. Sure self-care is about putting the focus on ourselves but helping others can be a fulfilling experience. It takes the spotlight off our own problems and brings a sense of well-being that you have helped someone. Self-care doesn’t necessarily mean doing things just for ourselves it means showing kindness to others and that is a beautiful feeling.

DAY 21 – DIAL BACK YOUR EXPECTATIONS OF OTHERS.

Back in Day 5 we looked at letting go of perfectionism and accepting that at times our best is good enough. Likewise, others can disappoint and let us down but is that because the standards we place on ourselves and others doesn’t allow room for being human? Take the pressure off yourself and others by dialing back your expectations and accepting that people will make mistakes.

DAY 22 – ASK FOR HELP

Life can be tough but you don’t have to go through it alone. Don’t be afraid or ashamed to ask for help if you are struggling. Our mental health and well-being is a huge part of self-care. Talk to a friend, talk to a counsellor or seek professional help. Lifeline 13 11 14 #selfcareinseptember