Writing that title made me laugh. Aren't all women busy? Don't all women need self care? Of course they do!
Women often carry the weight of the world on their shoulders and find it very hard to step back and breathe. We feel the need to always be on which places self care on the bottom of our to do list. It's time that we reevaluate that list and move ourselves to the top. We have to be intentional in making ourselves a priority and the good thing is there is no right or wrong way to do it.
Self care is how you remind yourself that you are a priority. The good thing is there is no right or wrong way to do it. Below are tips that you can start now as you make yourself a priority.
Self Care Tips for Busy Women
Create a morning routine: Routines are important as they keep us on task. When you are scheduling meetings or other appointments, add line items for yourself. It doesn't have to be elaborate or intense. I recommend you start small with things that are realistic and will stick. My routine includes meditation, drinking a glass of filtered water, and saying thank you to the universe.
Weekly Meal Plan: Trying to decide what to feed the family is stressful without a plan. Meal plans help you ensure a balanced meal while avoiding the need to overspend at fast food restaurants.
Set SMART Goals: Set yourself up for success with goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. SMART goals keep you motivated and on task.
Retail Therapy: Studies have shown that shopping can uplift your spirits immediately, while fighting off lingering sadness or stress. Please be mindful with this option as it can lead to bad behaviors if practiced too often. Always keep your budget in mind and remember that window shopping is a great option.
Reward Yourself: Celebrate your wins but realize that a setback doesn't mean you failed, it might be time to realign your tasks.
Keep a Journal: A journal is a best kept secret and has many uses. Clear your mind before bed with a brain dump, write the five things you are grateful for daily, and/or record your feelings for the day. No matter what you use it for, it is the perfect companion to keep in your purse or by the night stand. Often I write in my journal while sitting in the car between family activities or as I pull into the driveway at the end of the day. There is no rule for when you need to do it but getting it done will lift a load.
Private Dance Party: There is something about dancing that lifts the mood. You can do it alone or with the family. It is a fun easy way to get in your 30 minutes of movement. If dancing isn't your thing, there is always a brisk 30 minute walk or yoga. My son and I did some light hiking at an area close by my house and it was fun.
Get Some Sleep: Sounds easy but the National Sleep Foundation’s (NSF) annual Sleep in America® poll shows Americans feel sleepy on average three times a week. It is very hard to be productive when all you can think about it a nap. Seven to nine hours of sleep allows the body to reset and heal itself. Have you ever taken a nap in your drive way? That 10-15 minute power naps does wonder for your psyche.
Say No: Something so simple is often very hard for busy women. Saying NO has been one of the cheapest ways that I have used to make me a priority. People don't expect it because often we overextend ourselves to make others happy.
Delegate: Get over the idea that you have to do all and be all. Keep the task that you like but delegate the others. I absolutely hate laundry, so I taught the kids early on and now it's their chore. While grocery shopping is relaxing the kids are responsible for unloading and putting them away. No kids? Look to see what you can automate and/or just pay someone else to handle.
Go for a drive: I was able to experience the sanctuary of the Lincoln Corsair as part of the Girls Guide to Cars Fall Conference. I was quickly reminded why it's the brand for Oscar winner, Matthew McConaughey. This car was made for the person who values self care and luxury. While I already love jumping in a car and experiencing the open road with no particular destination this just elevated the experience. You will look for any excuse to go for a ride.
Not many people realize that the importance of the right car extends beyond the size, color. and engine type. We spend a large majority of our waking hours in the car so why not make certain that it also contributes to our well being. The Lincoln Corsair almost anticipates what your body needs.
The interior of the Lincoln Corsair is comfortable and spacious. We drove the 2021 AWD Reserve model with premium ebony/cashew leather interior. Take a look inside!
Looking for a Virtual Sanctuary Day?
Join A Girls Guide to Cars and Lincoln on September 22nd for a virtual day of creating sanctuary as you listen to speakers, get ideas and tips at The New Now: Live Your Best Life. Registration is free and open to all, and the first 200 attendees to join the full event will receive a special gift in the mail from Lincoln and A Girls Guide to Cars. Register here: bit.ly/driveyourbestlife
