Too Busy for Self-Care

It seems that people today are busier than ever. Maybe that’s not true, but it sure feels that way to me. But are we putting our health at risk by being too busy for self-care? When it comes to skin cancer, it is important to get it addressed as soon as possible. In fact, that’s true with almost any medical concern. So, how do we keep up with our busy lives, and still have time for the self-care we need?

Self-care encompasses many components

Self-care definitely includes taking care of your medical needs. But it’s more than that. It also means taking time for your peace of mind and mental health. If you’re too busy to take time for yourself, it’s not just your physical health that suffers.

I get it, it’s busy around holidays. Work schedules can be a hassle. And our landscape has changed since COVID. All of these throws wrenches into our best-laid plans. But overcoming and adapting is key in these situations.

Make a list

Some of us hate lists, others love them. When it comes to self-care, making a list helps those who tend to forget. This means making a doctor’s appointment and keeping it. Put it on your list to call, then put the date on your list, too. Use your smartphone’s calendar so you don’t forget. The point is that lists really help. Not only does it keep the task in front of you, but many people feel a sense of accomplishment as they mark off things they have done.

For example, a daily list may include something like this:

• Do laundry
• Thaw out dinner
• Zoom meeting at 5
• Call doctor about appointment

It’s really that simple. Some people don’t want to add mundane things like laundry, but as you mark things off, no matter how small, it gives you that feeling of accomplishment. Plus, if you’ve done everything else but call your doctor about a skin cancer concern - well, there it sits, just waiting for you to finish the list in full.

Feel free to prioritize things, too. Laundry may be at the bottom of your list or the top. Choose the smaller and easier things first if that makes it easier for you. It’s your list, so have fun with it.

Don’t be afraid to say no

Many of us are people pleasers. We tend to say yes to things we really don’t want to do, or don’t have the time to do. Whether it’s family members, work obligations, or something else - you do have the right to say no. I’m not saying lose your job or upset a family member. What I’m saying is that you can say that you can’t fit in the time or that you have other obligations. Your time is your own.

It’s extremely important for self-care when it comes to all aspects of your life - especially skin cancer concerns. Make sure you’re taking the time for yourself so that your mind and body has the best care possible.