Self-care. It’s a buzzword these days, but what does it actually mean? More importantly, how do you know when you’ve genuinely started prioritizing it? As a life and career coach and advocate for redefining self-care, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power it holds. If you’re in my world, you know that self-care is healthcare.
Let’s talk about the three major signs that show you’re truly putting your well-being at the forefront:
1. You’ve Set Boundaries – And Stick to Them
It’s a quiet but profound shift. One day, you realize you’re no longer saying “yes” to things that drain your energy or don’t serve you. Whether it’s declining that fourth Zoom call of the day, skipping an event you’re not excited about, or simply not checking emails after 7 p.m., you’ve established clear boundaries. And here’s the kicker: you stick to them without guilt.
I once worked with a woman, let’s call her Sarah, who struggled with people-pleasing. Her calendar was packed with commitments, but she felt depleted and uninspired. After working through the mindset shifts I teach, Sarah started small—saying “no” to one extra responsibility a week. She was amazed at the results. With each boundary she set, she began reclaiming her time and energy. Now, she spends her evenings unwinding instead of feeling burned out, and she’s happier for it.
The science backs it up. A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology found that individuals who set firm boundaries between work and personal life reported higher well-being and lower stress levels. Prioritizing self-care means you’ve given yourself permission to put your needs first.
2. You’re Intentional About Your Time
When you prioritize self-care, time becomes your ally, not your enemy. You’ve shifted from surviving the day to owning it. This is one of the biggest game-changers.
One of the first things I do with my clients is help them understand time management from a self-care lens. It’s not about packing your day with more productivity hacks—it’s about aligning your schedule with your values. Do you really need to attend that meeting? Could your morning start with a mindful meditation or a walk in nature instead of diving straight into emails? When you’re intentional about your time, you make space for activities that nourish you—physically, emotionally, and mentally.
I’ve personally felt this shift in my life. Years ago, I would try to squeeze in yoga between meetings, rushing from one thing to the next. It wasn’t until I started blocking out my schedule for self-care practices—whether it was 10 minutes or an hour—that I began feeling more grounded, energized, and in control of my day. Time is a precious commodity, and when you prioritize self-care, you make sure to spend it in ways that uplift you.
3. You Feel Better—Inside and Out
One of the most obvious signs you’re prioritizing your self-care? You feel better, both mentally and physically. This isn’t just about a fleeting moment of joy after a bubble bath. It’s about the consistent, long-term changes that happen when you prioritize your well-being.
Take sleep, for example. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults who regularly get 7-9 hours of sleep a night have improved memory, a stronger immune system, and even live longer. When you prioritize your self-care, you don’t just settle for quick fixes; you invest in long-term habits that nurture your body and mind. Whether it’s healthier eating, regular movement, or mindfulness practices, these habits become your new non-negotiables.
And this shows up in your daily life. You wake up with more energy, your relationships improve, and stress no longer runs the show. You feel more at peace with yourself, and that inner glow radiates outward.
Prioritizing self-care isn’t about escaping life’s responsibilities—it’s about showing up for them in a better, more balanced way. It’s knowing that by filling your own cup, you have more to give to those around you.
So, take a moment today to reflect: are you setting boundaries, managing your time intentionally, and feeling good inside and out? If yes, congratulations—you’re on the path to true self-care. And if not? Well, it’s never too late to start. The journey to a more balanced, fulfilled life begins with you.
Here’s to owning your self-care and thriving!
P.S. Did you sign up for our free 7-Day Self-Care and Wellness Challenge starting tomorrow? Renew and re-energize this fall!
