Unless you’ve been under a rock or maybe a pile of never-ending laundry for the last few years- you’ve probably heard of the term “self-care”. We all need it, but rarely do we take it. This word can mean different things for different people. For some- it’s going to get a massage. For others it’s just a few hours of alone time to read that book that’s been on your end table for the last six months or like me a full year collecting dust. If you’re an extrovert and ‘refill your tanks’ with the energy of those close to you, it can look like scheduling that much-needed coffee date with your best friend.

What do I like? I love to wake up an hour or so before my husband and two kids so I can get my workout in peacefully. It’s that simple. Starting my day off with that hour to myself is one of the best things I can do for myself, and therefore the people I care about.

I also feel my best when my body is healthy. I usually LOVE taking walks (when it's nice out) at lunch during my break to get a little exercise and some deep breathing going. If I’m in need of some extra mental clarity during the winter I will use the treadmill to get some extra steps in and get re-energized.

Another thing I make sure to do to prioritize my own self-care? I ask for help. My hubby is great at helping when I ask, which is sometimes all I need. He also knows when I need a break (usually when I start yelling at the kids...lol). Mom life happens and we all have our moments.

I think we should all be able to agree that self-care is not selfish… it’s necessary.

My advice? Let the guilt go. It is not serving you- it’s impairing you.

Tune out the negative voices and focus on yourself, because when you do that and you’re overflowing with self-worth and confidence- everyone wins. And that certainly doesn’t sound selfish to me.