5 Self-Care Reminders You Definitely Haven’t Thought Of
The tiny but powerful shifts that make self-care actually work — and why they’re harder than they look.
Let’s be real — most of us are out here thinking we’re doing self-care because we scheduled a massage or splurged on a face mask last weekend. And hey, no shame — I love a good skincare moment. But the truth is, self-care is less about the “stuff” and more about the state of mind we create.
Today I’m sharing five self-care reminders you probably haven’t thought of — and here’s the twist: I’m also giving you a little real talk reflection for each one, because every act of care has a shadow side. It’s the part that makes it harder to follow through, even with the best intentions.
Ready? Let’s go.
1️⃣ Set a Vibe
How do you want to feel in your space?
Your environment matters — lights, smells, textures, noise. It’s not about perfection; it’s about comfort. Do you feel peaceful when you’re here? Supported? Rested?
🌿 Real Talk Reflection:
We often don’t realize we’re uncomfortable until we’re overstimulated or shut down. We push through the tension, the noise, the clutter — until suddenly, we snap. So instead, ask yourself ahead of time: What helps me feel calm in this space? What tiny shifts can I make to set the vibe I want?
2️⃣ Set Boundaries
Your time. Your energy. Your kindness.
All need limits.
Boundaries are love letters to yourself. But they aren’t just about saying no — they’re about saying yes to what matters most.
🌿 Real Talk Reflection:
Setting a boundary is often doable. Enforcing it when others push back? Oof. That’s where we crumble. Someone expresses disappointment, frustration, or confusion, and suddenly we’re backpedaling. Remember: you’re allowed to hold the line even when others don’t like it. Their reaction doesn’t make your boundary wrong.
3️⃣ Balance
If you don’t prioritize you, eventually your body will.
It’s cute to tell ourselves we can run on empty — until the exhaustion, headaches, burnout, and illness show up to force the slowdown.
🌿 Real Talk Reflection:
Balance isn’t about being perfectly zen all the time. It’s about noticing when you’ve been putting yourself last — again — and gently redirecting before your body or mind crashes. If you don’t take the time now, trust me, illness will make sure you take the time later.
4️⃣ Have Fun
What brings you joy? …do it, fully.
Joy is a form of resistance. It’s a reclaiming of your aliveness. Fun shouldn’t be a once-in-a-while accident; it should be a deliberate part of your life.
🌿 Real Talk Reflection:
Here’s the trap: when we’re overworked or stressed, we often say, “I’ll have fun after I get through this.” But the fun never happens because the to-do list never ends. You have to bake it in. Joy isn’t frivolous — it’s fuel.
5️⃣ Give Yourself a Break
You deserve love and kindness, too.
Not someday, when you’ve finished everything. Not when you’re “perfect.” Now. Right now.
🌿 Real Talk Reflection:
Many of us live in a loop of “I’ll rest after…” But the break never feels earned, and we carry guilt into every pause we take. The challenge is learning to give yourself a break without a performance review attached. You’re allowed to rest simply because you’re human
Here’s your reminder:
Self-care isn’t something you “win” at. It’s not one more item on your achievement list.
It’s a mindset shift — a steady, imperfect practice.
Which of these reminders hit home for you today?