How often do you show up for everyone else — your family, your coworkers, your community — but leave yourself last on the list?
We tell ourselves we’ll rest after. After the dishes. After the group chat. After the event. But here's a gentle truth:
You don’t have to earn your rest. You don’t have to prove your worth through burnout.
Let’s explore simple, guilt-free ways you can show yourself some love and still stay connected to the people and spaces that matter to you.
Set “Mini Boundaries” That Still Let You Participate
You don’t have to skip every group chat, Zoom call, or girls night to take care of yourself — but you can decide how and when you engage.
Join a call with your camera off and tea in hand.
Say, “I’d love to be there, but only for 30 minutes.”
Leave a group thread on read and reply when you feel grounded.
This isn’t flaking — it’s self-respect.
Create a 10-Minute Ritual That’s Just Yours
No, it doesn’t have to be an hour-long bubble bath (though it can be!).
Try one of these quick resets:
A 5-minute meditation before checking your phone in the morning.
Journaling with your favorite music playing.
Stepping outside barefoot to breathe and reset.
Start with 10 minutes — give yourself that.
3. Don’t Apologize for Needing Space
“I need to recharge” is not something you need to apologize for.
Try saying:
“I love connecting with everyone, but I’m going to take tonight to rest. Can’t wait to catch up soon.”
“I’m protecting my peace today, so I’ll circle back when I’m feeling more filled up.”
The people who love you will understand. And the ones who don’t? That’s information.
4. Let Others Show Up for You
You don’t always have to be the planner, the problem-solver, the therapist friend.
Try this:
Ask for a ride instead of always offering one.
Say, “Can we talk about me for a minute?”
Let someone else host the thing.
You’re not a burden. You’re a human being who deserves support too.
5. Celebrate the Small Self-Care Wins
Drank water today? That counts.
Didn’t answer a text right away? That counts.
Said “no” and didn’t over-explain? That. Counts.
Let’s stop waiting for the big spa day and start recognizing the everyday moments that are healing us.
You can be loving and need rest.
You can be present and take space.
You can care about others and prioritize yourself.
Let your self-care be a love letter to the version of you who’s always been doing her best — even when no one else was watching.
