How To Build The Perfect Self Care Routine And Stick To It

[AD] If you want a happy life, then self-care is a mandatory component, but too often than not, it’s just an extra that we add into our day to day lives if, and when, we have the time. Just as you would build and plan for an effective fitness, skincare or even work routine, self-care also needs to be carefully thought and planned out to actually see the positive effects and to be consistent. Here are three tips to help you create the perfect self-care routine and stick to it.

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Schedule It

Probably one of the most important steps – if you don’t make time for it then simply put, you won’t have a self-care routine in the first place. Treating yourself to the occasional pamper session is just that. A treat, not a habit. To create an effective routine that you will stick to, you need to take the time and make it a priority. Add yourself at the top of your weekly to-do list or calendar just like you would with a doctor’s appointment, work meeting or lunch with a friend. Once you have blocked out the time and added it to your calendar, you are more likely to prioritise your self-care time rather than brushing it off to one side. As an added extra, you could also involve your family and friends and let them know when you are having some of your ‘me-time’ so that you aren’t disturbed. 

Be Consistent 

While it’s great to be spontaneous sometimes, grabbing a sheet mask once in a while at the end of a tough day isn’t what great self-care routines are made of. To see, and more importantly feel, the effects you need to maintain consistent habits and one of the ways to do this is to have a regular meal and sleep routine. When we forget to eat, overeat, eat too little and have erratic sleep patterns, this can end up taking a massive toll on our bodies, energy and overall health. Having consistent energy levels is something that both your body and mind will really appreciate, especially on days when you need to be productive so try and wake up and go to sleep at the same time every day, especially during the week. Also make sure that you eat regularly, and at the same time, until it becomes natural for you, and therefore a routine. 

Start Slow And Create A New Mindset

Even though self-care feels great, a lot of people often end up feeling guilty for taking the time out to spend on themselves. This negative mindset gets in the way and hampers you from not only sticking to your self-care routine but is also a dangerous way of thinking as taking the time out for yourself to recharge your batteries is essential for your mental health. 

To stick to your new routine, and to get rid of any guilt, start slowly to ease yourself into it and implement your self-care ideas one at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s painting, diy vaping or going for a run, start with the activities that are easiest and make you feel the best.