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By: Amanda Frittz
In my opinion, the reason why self-care is so crucial is because when we take the time to pour into ourselves we can better pour into others.
Self-care really shouldn’t be all about us. It should be about preparing our hearts and minds to serve God and the people around us. The fact is, the majority of us have no problem serving our own needs – we struggle serving others. I know this is certainly the case in my own life. Personally, It’s insanely easy for me to focus on my needs while being blind to my husbands unless I’m intentional in seeking them out.
However, I’ve learned that by preparing my heart each morning I am much more intentional in serving others around me through the remainder of the day.
Bible & Prayer Time
The most essential part of my “me-time” morning routine is getting in the Word and talking with God. I swear I notice a huge difference in my ability to handle daily stressors when I make sure to get this in.
Even if you just set aside 15 minutes when you first wake up, or during your kid’s afternoon nap I highly recommend making this a routine and discipline. We need to make it a habit to find our strength through God and not ourselves.
2 Corinthians 12:8-10 NKJV “Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
Make Time for Necessary Self-Care
It’s true that it is much harder to happily take care of others when we have neglected ourselves. I know for me when I haven’t had a chance to get ready I’m not setting myself up for success.
Even if it means waking up a few minutes earlier, I can’t stress the importance of making sure you get in enough time to get dressed and comb your hair. I don’t think it’s necessary to do full-glam every day, but it is always such a confidence boost to take a little time to make yourself presentable. This is an essential self-care step in order to serve others. Also, taking care of yourself shows your family that you have things in order and sets a good example.
Start With a Small Success
Sometimes when I have a long list of to-do’s I can get overwhelmed and doubt my ability to achieve all that I need to do. Whether I end up being able to accomplish everything or not is beside the point, I want to have an optimistic attitude going into each and every day.
Something that has helped me stay positive even on impossibly busy days is starting my day out with success. Instead of allowing myself to get bogged down by my long to-do list and therefore putting off many of my tasks, I start with something quick and simple. I make my bed every morning either after or before my Bible & prayer time. This way I start my day out by accomplishing something. Doing this small discipline first thing makes me feel extra productive and gives me the push of momentum I need. Do whatever small task makes YOU feel accomplished before you begin your to-do list and serving others.
Plan Your Day
You can’t always fully prepare for something you don’t foresee. That’s why it’s helpful to plan out your day and where you are needed. Plus, having a schedule makes it easier to create margin. This is incredibly important for self-care because we all need moments of peace and quiet throughout the week! Of course, even if we try to plan we are going to come across things we didn’t plan for. That’s okay! However, planning your day and week will help prepare your heart for all its duties.
It’s hard to be intentional in serving others’ needs when you haven’t made a plan. Having a schedule is your plan for success! If you’re wanting some encouragement on how you can be a productive homemaker you can watch my video with tips here.