Reason number 33 why I decided to make self-care a priority this year is…
Self-care is encouraging!
Encouragement is a positive reinforcer that gives us cues that is okay to continue on engaging in whatever activity we are doing. Encouragement is something that we have all (hopefully) received at some point in our lives and is something that we have all (hopefully) given to someone else.
Encouraging words can be the one thing that motivates someone to continue. They also helps others to know that you see and recognize the work they are doing. Although we may appreciate and seek encouragement from others, I would caution you about depending on such encouragement from others.
To be honest, there are times when we need encouragement from others, yet we cannot receive it because it might be too late at night to call someone or maybe we don’t have anyone to call. There is a solution for times like those and that solution is to encourage yourself!
There is nothing wrong with telling yourself:
“You got this!”
“Go ahead, sis!”
“You are amazing.”
“You’ve done well.”
“You are doing the best you can right now.”
Again, there is absolutely nothing wrong with encouraging yourself. There are different ways to encourage yourself. You can have a positive affirmation jar. You can write notes to yourself and post them in visible places around your house or your desk. You can keep a jar or journal of accomplishments. If you do any of the above suggestion, you will have some much needed encouragement at any time.
Take the time in your self-care practice this week to not only encourage yourself, but someone around you.
Be well.