5 Self Care Practices To Make You A More Effective Person

#1 Routine

Wake up on time, Go to bed on time. Any time. Every time. Choose your schedule, what works for you? Are you an early riser or an evening owl? Whatever the answer is, Whatever the outside forces may bestow upon you (work, kids, appointments). Make a plan and make it work. First of all, getting enough rest is critical, and using your inner clock to your advantage is an easy win. Secondly, having enough time to meet all your needs without rushing is a huge stress reducer. Thirdly, The smallest amount of self-discipline does enormous things for your confidence and well being. Start with waking up on time, end up running a marathon.

#2 Get ready

We all know that we feel better when we spend a little time on ourselves in the morning. Putting your best foot forward has been enforced by parents for forever. Do you know why? IT HELPS! It boosts your confidence, making you a more comfortable decision maker. It causes you to think through your day, helping you to be more prepared for the tasks that will be required. It is respectful to others, because it shows that you care (at least a little) about their opinion of you, and in turn invokes a small amount of respect from them. I'm not saying to worry about every person's constant judgment; nobody can live like that. However, getting on the train with BO is more than a faux pa.

#3 Excersize

Working out doesn't have to be consuming. You don't have to spend 2 hours at the gym every day. A two-mile run takes the average person about 24 minutes. A quick yoga session in your jammies can take as little as 20 minutes. A few rounds of calisthenics (sit ups, push ups, squats) Is under 30 minutes. It's worth your time.

#4 Clear your mind

Now for me, this means assessing any irritants or anxieties that I may have been holding onto, praying, and then practicing some deep breathing. Some people use guided meditation apps. Some people enjoy journaling, (I love journaling myself). Some people do yoga. There are so many options here, and you can incorporate as many as you like! Choose a few options for clearing your mind, and do it often. Maintain your stress levels. It benefits you and everything you affect, your job, your coworkers, your kids, your friends. Everyone benefits from this.

#5 Fuel Up Properly

When your hungry, you should eat. When your full, you should stop. When you're thirsty, you should drink. Want a cup of coffee, good on you! Want seven red bulls, something is wrong here. Be moderate and mindful. I'm not saying count calories and read every label. It’s not that labor intensive. Keep it simple. Meet your bodies needs (not wants).

I know I titled the article self-care, but the truth is that all these practices are about self-discipline. Disciplining yourself IS caring for yourself.

Jennifer Myers