Self-care has become a popular topic lately, with everyone discussing the importance of taking care of oneself in various ways. From indulging in a relaxing bubble bath to being more mindful of our spending habits, the concept of self-care is everywhere. But what does self-care really mean, and how can we make it a sustainable part of our daily routine?
When I first started my journey towards recovery from bipolar symptoms, I tried to cram in as many self-care practices as possible into my day. I would wake up at 5 a.m., do yoga, meditate, journal, read, go for a run, and strength train – all before lunchtime. While I felt proud of my dedication, I also felt completely drained and realized that this intense routine was not feasible in the long run.
The Power of Focus
Recently, I came across the book “The ONE THING” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan, where they discuss how focusing on one key task can lead to extraordinary results. This got me thinking – what is the one thing I could do each day that would have the most positive impact on my overall well-being?
For me, as someone with bipolar disorder, I realized that cardiovascular exercise, specifically running, was crucial for my mental health. So, I made running my “ONE THING” in the morning, knowing that it would set a positive tone for the rest of my day. This simple shift in focus made self-care feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
I extended this concept to other areas of my life as well:
– My ONE THING for spiritual health: Attend weekly services at my local Unitarian Universalist Church.
– My ONE THING for social health: Call a friend for a walk once a week.
– My ONE THING for financial health: Wait 24 hours before making a significant purchase.
Discover Your ONE THING
With so many distractions in our modern world, focusing on one key activity can bring a sense of clarity and peace. When considering your own self-care practices, think about what activity brings you the most joy and benefit. It could be something as simple as your morning coffee ritual or taking your dog for a walk.
By choosing a single “ONE THING” to prioritize in each aspect of your life, you can simplify your self-care routine and make it more sustainable in the long run. Celebrate your small achievements and embrace the power of consistency in self-care.
Remember, everyone’s ONE THING will be different. Take the time to discover what works best for you and incorporate it into your daily routine. By focusing on the activities that bring you the most joy and benefit, you can create a more peaceful and balanced life.
