A Practical Guide to Self-Care for People Who Avoid It

The term "self-care" gets a bad rap. Some people believe that it's been over-commercialized to the point where it often feels shallow and and even performative.

However, taking care of yourself is necessary, even if the typical approaches don't resonate with you.

Here’s a straightforward guide to practical, perhaps unexpected ideas for self-care.

Define It on Your Terms

Self-care isn’t about indulgence or aesthetics; it’s about maintaining your mental and physical health. For some, this might mean regular exercise or therapy. For others, it’s clearing their inbox or taking a nap. It doesn’t matter what it looks like as long as it reduces stress or helps you function better.

Start Small and Specific

Massive lifestyle changes are hard to sustain, so focus on small, actionable tasks.

Examples:

• Drink water before your morning coffee.

• Take 2 minutes to stretch.

• Declutter one drawer.

The goal is progress, not perfection. Small improvements can have a cumulative impact without requiring drastic effort.

Do What Actually Helps You

Self-care doesn’t have to fit traditional molds. If meditation doesn’t work, skip it. If reorganizing your bookshelf or cooking a familiar meal gives you a sense of control, prioritize that. Anything that makes your day feel less overwhelming qualifies.

Tackle Practical Stressors

Addressing small but persistent stressors can be one of the most effective forms of self-care. Examples include paying bills on time, managing your calendar, or cleaning up a cluttered workspace. These actions reduce mental load and create space for you to focus on other priorities.

Rest Without Guilt

Rest is a valid form of self-care, even if it looks unproductive. Lying on the couch, reading a book, or taking a nap can be restorative. Allow yourself the time to recharge without feeling the need to justify it.

Skip Comparisons

Your version of self-care doesn’t need to match anyone else’s. What works for one person may not work for you, and that’s fine. Focus on what meets your needs rather than adhering to societal or cultural trends.

Self-care doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. It’s about recognizing your needs and taking steps to meet them. Whether it’s fixing something practical, finding joy in small moments, or simply resting, what matters is that it works for you. Start with what feels manageable and sustainable. It only takes a few minutes a day. Everyone has a few minutes, no matter how busy they claim to be.