The Return on Investing in Yourself
“What if you wake up some day, and you're 65, or 75, and you never got your memoir or novel written, or you didn't go swimming in those warm pools and oceans all those years because your thighs were jiggly; or you were just so strung out on perfectionism and people-pleasing that you forgot to have a big juicy creative life, of imagination and radical silliness and staring off into space like when you were a kid? It's going to break your heart. Don't let this happen.”
- Anne Lamott
It’s easy to lose sight of ourselves underneath a neverending to-do list. And, let’s be honest: investing in ‘me-time’ isn’t always easy. We live in a hustle culture, have stressful jobs, and are often consumed with technology to make time for ourselves and the things that spark joy in our lives. But the science is in - self-care is crucial to a happy, healthy life.
So, Why Is It Important?
Our mental and emotional well-being depends on how aligned we are with our own needs. For example, consider the safety speech you hear every time you fly on an airplane. Most likely, other people will need your help in an emergency, so the flight attendants tell you to secure your oxygen mask before assisting others. Why? Because it’s impossible to help others without ensuring your safety first. That same logic can be applied to your everyday life. When you focus on self-improvement physically, emotionally, and mentally, you become better able to pursue your goals and enrich the lives of the people around you. Investing in your own mental and emotional health allows you to become the best version of yourself – the version that can be more, do more, and achieve a more positive impact on the world.
Where Should I Start?
A quick Google search will give you an infinite list of self-care tips that can feel overwhelming, but sometimes the simplest ways to care for yourself can make the most significant impact. Take a moment to think of what you’re actually capable of doing in this season of your life; maybe it’s a full night’s sleep, a big ‘ol glass of water first thing in the morning, or choosing to stack your dinner plate with vegetables instead of Cheetos and PopTarts are some good baby steps to treating yourself like the queen/king you are! It doesn’t always have to be some grand gesture (but you bet it can be!). Then, when you’re ready to level up, think back to what brought you joy as a child - riding your bike, sand castle construction at the beach, or breaking out a fresh canvas and some paint.
Investing in Creativity
Creativity is an often-overlooked aspect of overall health: it is self-care. A person’s creative outlet may be elusive because they haven’t found their perfect creative medium. However, exercising our creativity significantly contributes to our mental health and well-being. Being innovative and imaginative, which is often at the heart of creativity, makes us happy. The physical act of creating something new is not the only thing that is therapeutic; it can also be a meaningful way to process adverse experiences and reduce heightened emotions. Creativity as an outlet to channel personal anxieties or process trauma through sharing and storytelling can be highly beneficial (and cathartic!).
Investing in yourself is the best return on investment you will ever have. Whether learning a new skill, developing yourself professionally, or tapping into your creativity, ensure you prioritize giving time to yourself. Creativity is not optional for a full, meaningful life - it’s essential. Embrace self-expression in any form that makes your soul light up. Grant yourself permission to be curious, unique, and unabashedly yourself.
