Opinions of contributing entrepreneurs are their own.
Self-care has become an all-encompassing term that has drifted away from the importance of everyday products that keep us in good health and a good mood. While pampering and “treat yourself” moments are still valuable, here are ten ways to invest in yourself to get long-lasting, positive results.
Related: 8 Self-Care Tips From Hugely Successful Entrepreneurs
Table of Contents
1. Put money in a 401(k)
It’s never too early (or too late!) to start saving for the future. Depending on your employment status, there are different pension savings accounts. 401(k)s are the most common because they are sponsored by the employer and often involve an employer match. However, freelancers also have options, such as a SEP-IRA or a high-yield savings account, to set aside extra tax-free dollars for retirement.
2. Schedule a health checkup
Self-care includes taking care of your physical health first. It’s easy to discredit regular checkups when you feel healthy, but make this the year to get your bloodwork done. It creates a baseline for your health to identify areas that need improvement or additional attention.
Also choose areas in your life where you can make small changes. Improving your health doesn’t always mean a drastic overhaul; it could be as simple as drinking more water or adding an extra 30 minutes of exercise to your day.
Related: 3 important tips for optimizing your physical health as an businessroundups.org
3. View health insurance benefits
Many people with health insurance do not know exactly what it does and does not cover. If you are unsure, talk to your HR representative or your health insurance provider for a breakdown of deductibles, co-payments, and other additional benefits you may not be aware of. Then determine if the care plan makes sense for your current lifestyle.
Are you paying for allowances that you do not use or do you need additional allowances that are not covered? By selecting the right plan, you can be sure that you have what you need, without paying extra for everything you don’t need.
4. Fuel your curiosity
Maintaining healthy cognitive functions through new pursuits boosts the brain. Be curious and find out what appeals to you. This could be anything from exploring local museums, following different hiking trails, learning a new language, or reading more books.
There is no limit to what you can do, and these activities can spark more creativity and motivation in your work. While it can be helpful to look to others for inspiration, make sure they’re fun so you’ll want to make them a regular occurrence.
5. Prioritize mental health
Mental health has been at the forefront of people’s lives in recent years as many have experienced burnout. We often equate productivity with a value that pushes us to go beyond our capabilities and leads to anxiety, stress, and depression. Take note of your daily stressors and see how you can reduce or eliminate them. Then replace them with relaxing outlets that allow you to recharge.
There are several ways to prioritize mental health, from practicing positive self-talk to meditation to planning an electronics-free day. You may have to try several solutions before you find one that fits.
Related: 5 Ways to Protect Your Mental Health as an businessroundups.org
6. Implement good sleeping habits
Consistent sleep is one of the essential factors for good health, but it is often overlooked. For many, it can be a challenge to unwind from the working day. Therefore, you must “train” your body to prepare for sleep by adopting a nighttime routine.
Create a sanctuary for yourself to improve your sleeping habits. Enjoy a soothing cup of herbal tea, perform a skin care routine and curl up with a good book instead of scrolling through your phone. In addition, make sure your bedroom is dark and cool for optimal sleeping comfort and turn on soothing sounds if it helps you fall asleep.
7. Try something new
What have you always wanted to try, but always held back? Maybe it’s public speaking or contributing to a blog. Whatever is “new” on your to-do, make a plan, schedule it in your calendar and go for it. It’s normal to put off these activities due to fear of the unknown or failure, but trying new things helps build confidence and can be the catalyst you need to take you to the next level.
8. Learn to set boundaries
Setting boundaries is crucial to relationships, but can be difficult to manage. It doesn’t always mean simply saying no to people’s requests. Instead, it requires protecting your own values when people violate them. Setting boundaries can mean spending less time with certain people, removing yourself from toxic situations, or turning down invitations to events that don’t improve your life. Explore areas where boundaries will help you grow, and keep in mind that growth itself is a work in progress.
Related: Setting Boundaries to Build Thriving Relationships
9. Spend quality time alone
Learning how to enjoy time alone is a valuable gift. We are inundated with a false sense of belonging over the internet, often making us feel lonelier than ever. Then we over-plan our schedules to make human connections, only to feel drained afterwards. Slow it down and schedule a few solo dates a month to see what it feels like to be truly present with yourself.
For those who are not used to spending quality time alone, it may feel awkward and awkward at first, but this comes from your own perceptions. Go to a matinee, sit in a coffee shop and read, or enjoy a concert or event you’ve always wanted to attend. Alone time has been linked to improved stress management and greater enjoyment of life, so it’s worth giving yourself more time.
Related: It turns out that those who enjoy being alone can be more creative
10. Get active
Becoming active can go in different directions. It can be physical, emotional or spiritual. The point is to engage in people and pursuits that nourish your soul. Whether you’re volunteering within your community, setting yourself an exercise goal, or learning more about personal development, there are endless ways to get active and invest in yourself this year.
