How I Found Self-Care Without Becoming a Walking Calendar
I discovered a year or so ago that I was fucntioning entirely on autopilot—scrolling late into the night, missing meals, and appearing everywhere but myself. The thought of setting aside “me time” felt so… and unproductive, yet I was harried and tense. I’m also really bad at time-blocking and planning.
I therefore attempted something looser: I paid attention to the subtle cues throughout my day rather than putting myself into yet another strict schedule.
I began by creating a journal an writing, simply a few phrases expressing my current every day or so. I discovered patterns over time: I needed to move when I was restless, I wanted to connect when I felt empty, and I needed to take a break when I was having trouble focussing. After that, Instead of setting an alarm for 6 p.m. to “unwind,” I followed my indications. I would stretch or go outdoors for some fresh air if I noticed that I was yawning at my desk. I would reach for my phone and check in if I had the need to text a friend. Those little self-care sessions felt far more organic than a strict “daily checklist.”
In the end, my favourites were:
When I journal I always write what I am grateful for. I noticed I didnt make it a lot nad was feeling down. It is nice to appreciate the little things in life and be grateful for them. It helped me to have a more positive and fresh perspective on things.
I work out three times a week, when I do not feel like it, I try to have at least a short session and do someting. I get more energy and fell great after it every time!
Every time I feel my energy waning, I make tea. The ritual helps me to think about something else and enjoy a great cup!
That’s all. No colour-coded plans or “5 pm yoga”—just simple routines that work with my day’s flow.
Copying someone else’s ideal timetable is not the goal. It involves identifying your current needs and granting yourself permission to fulfil them whenever you feel like it. Write a few words in your journal first, then focus and allow your own little moments of self-care to blossom. You’ve got this.
Thank you for this article. I always feel tired and scroll my phone too late. I try your idea and start small journal — just few words about how I feel. When I notice I am restless, I go outside for fresh air. I also make tea when my energy go down, and I feel calm. It help me more than strict schedule. Now I try and listen my own small needs, and I feel happier.