Does Self-Care Make You Feel Guilty?

Do you feel guilty when you take time to care for yourself?

Consider someone who drives people around for a living, such as an Uber driver. His (or her) vehicle is what he uses to serve people. Is it selfish for him to take time to have it serviced? Have the tires checked? Have the oil changed? Refill it with gas?

If the Uber driver didn’t do these vital things, his car may break down.

Our bodies are what we use to serve people. We need energy from nutritious foods. We need strength from regular movement that gives us joy. We need rest to feel rejuvenated and think clearly. We need time to play and do things that give us joy to invigorate us/reduce stress. Etc etc etc.

When we don’t take time to do these things, WE may break down. We may feel fatigued/overwhelmed. We may be distracted and not able to fully be there for others.

Just as it isn’t selfish for an Uber driver to take time to care for his car, it isn’t selfish for us to make time to take care of US. This helps us feel our best and be there fully for others.