What You're Getting Wrong About Self Care: 5 Common Myths

The concept of self care has gained significant attention over the years, and with that popularity has come a lot of misconceptions. Here are five common myths about self care, along with the facts that correct them.

Myth 1: Self Care is Selfish

Fact: Some believe that the notion of self care is selfish or self-centered. However, the truth is that self care is a very natural part of how every living creature both survives and thrives. Consider our own bodies--we consume calories from food to sustain ourselves in order to complete our daily activities. When we consume less calories than we need for our daily activities, eventually our bodies naturally begin to reduce activity to preserve calories in order to account for the caloric deficit. In other words, our body knows what it needs and automatically makes the necessary adjustments to help keep us alive when those needs are not being met. Is this selfish? Or is this simply necessary for survival?   

With what we now know about the harmful impact of stress, consuming enough mental, emotional, and/or spiritual "calories" each day is just as important for your survival and wellbeing, and actually enables you to be more present and effective in other areas of your life. Taking good care of yourself doesn't just benefit you—it can help you show up better for others as well. If you're constantly running on empty, without making the necessary adjustments, you won't be able to give your best to your job, family, or friends. Ultimately, that would be much more detrimental in the long run, in comparison.

Myth 2: Self Care Means Spending a Lot of Money

Fact: While it's true that some forms of self care, like spa treatments or retreats, can be costly, it doesn't need to be expensive. Self care can be as simple as taking a walk, practicing mindfulness, journaling, or prioritizing a good night's sleep. It's about taking small, consistent actions that prioritize your wellness. Free or low-cost activities, like making sure to take your lunch break or practicing deep breathing throughout a stressful day, can be incredibly effective forms of self care as well.

Myth 3: Self Care is Only About Physical Health

Fact: Physical health is an important component of self care, but mental, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing are imperative as well. Eating a nutritious diet and exercise are obviously important, but engaging in activities like prayer and meditation, talking to a supportive friend, or setting healthy boundaries are also key aspects of maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle. It may even involve seeking therapy to process difficult emotions or challenging seasons of life. Remember, you need more than just physical calories to survive and thrive.

Myth 4: Self Care is Time-Consuming

Fact: Another misconception is that self care requires a lot of time. In reality, it can be incorporated into your daily routine in short bursts. You don’t need an entire afternoon to focus on self care. Five minutes of deep breathing, taking a short walk, or enjoying a quiet moment can work wonders. The key is consistency, not duration. By incorporating small moments of care throughout your day, you can improve your wellbeing without overwhelming your schedule.

Myth 5: Self Care is Just About Pampering

Fact: For many people groups in our society, self care is considered a luxury that only certain people get to have access to--this couldn't be more wrong! While treating yourself to a luxurious bath or skincare routine can feel great, self care goes beyond pampering. True self care involves addressing your needs on a deeper level—whether that's setting boundaries, seeking help when you need it, managing stress, or taking time to reflect and rest. It's about valuing yourself as a person worthy of care and consideration, and making choices that show that care to support your long-term health and wellness--rather than just a temporary indulgence. 

Final Thoughts:

The key is understanding that self care is an ongoing practice that should be adapted to your individual needs and preferences. It’s about creating habits that nurture your wellbeing, whether it’s through physical activity, mental relaxation, emotional support, or a spiritual discipline. By challenging these common myths, we can start to approach self care in a more holistic and realistic way, making it accessible and sustainable for everyone.