Sis, Put Yourself First: Three Self-Care Tips You Need Now
In a world that glorifies the hustle, it’s easy to forget that pouring from an empty cup isn’t sustainable. Prioritizing self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and spa days, but it’s about intentionally making space to nurture yourself. Women - especially Black women - often carry the weight of their communities, families, and workplaces, leaving little room for themselves. It’s time to shift that narrative. Here are three actionable self-care tips to help put yourself first.
1. Set Boundaries and Honor Them
Setting boundaries can feel uncomfortable, but it’s essential for protecting your well-being. Whether it’s at work, with friends, or even family, learning to say no without guilt is a powerful act of self-care. Take inspiration from actress and entrepreneur Tracee Ellis Ross who openly advocates for prioritizing herself, or media mogul Oprah Winfrey who emphasizes the importance of saying “no” to preserve mental clarity and energy. Similarly, small business owner Aniyah Banks of SheBoss Co. restructured her operations during a pivotal moment to focus on what truly mattered, showcasing that boundaries can help reclaim time and energy for your passions and purpose. Embracing boundaries isn’t just about saying “no.” It’s about saying “yes” to what aligns with your values and vision.
Pro Tip: Practice saying “no” with grace by using phrases like, “I’d love to, but I can’t right now.”
“Whether it’s landing a new client, sticking to a routine, or simply making it through a tough week, every win deserves celebration.”
2. Invest in Wellness Practices
Your physical and mental health deserve attention. This can be as simple as committing to a daily walk, practicing meditation, or journaling your thoughts. Jessica Alba, founder of Honest Beauty, turned her passion for clean and sustainable skincare into a brand that promotes wellness for others. Similarly, you can find small, meaningful ways to care for your body and mind while creating a positive impact in your life and beyond.
Pro Tip: Start with 15 minutes a day dedicated to a wellness activity that brings you peace.
3. Celebrate Your Wins—Big and Small
Too often, we downplay our achievements. Whether it’s landing a new client, sticking to a routine, or simply making it through a tough week, every win deserves celebration. Treat yourself to something special or take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come. Celebrating your journey reminds you of your strength and resilience.
Pro Tip: Keep a “win journal” to document moments you’re proud of and revisit it whenever you need a boost.
Sis, You Deserve This
Just like entrepreneurs pivot to sustain their businesses, you can pivot to prioritize yourself. Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s survival. As you implement these tips, remember that putting yourself first allows you to show up fully for others. So, what’s one self-care ritual you’ll start today?
Sincerely,
Jazzlin Raquel
