Getting caught up in the whirlwind of daily life, especially as women who juggle countless responsibilities is one of those things that sneak up on you when you are not looking.

We’re expected to be career powerhouses, nurturing partners, attentive mothers, supportive friends, and so much more. This constant pressure can make it feel like there’s no time left for ourselves, and is there really? When it comes to prioritising our well-being, we often come face to face with challenges like;

The “Superwoman” Syndrome: There’s an ingrained societal expectation for us to do it all, and to do it perfectly. This often leads to overcommitment, burnout, and a feeling of guilt when we try to step back or say no, especially in African homes where a woman’s worth is almost always measured in service.

Emotional Labor: Beyond paid work, women often bear the brunt of emotional labor, managing household dynamics, remembering birthdays, planning social events, and being the emotional support system for others while forgetting ourselves.

Caregiving Responsibilities: Many women are primary caregivers for children, elderly parents, or other family members, adding significant demands on their time and energy but are encouraged to carry it all with effortless grace.

Societal Pressure and Judgment: Women can face criticism or judgment if they prioritise their own needs over the needs of others, leading to a fear of being perceived as “selfish.”

The Mental Load: The constant mental to-do list, planning, and worrying about every detail can be exhausting. It’s like having a second, unpaid job that never really ends. Hear me out when I say this, taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury; it is a necessity. It requires first, a shift in perspective and then a certain level of stubbornness to make it happen. You must understand that staying busy does not equal productivity, and a burnt out woman is NOT a happy woman.

Your well-being is paramount. Here’s how you can start;

Reclaim Your Rest: Rest is more than just sleep; it’s a cessation of activity to relax, recover, and find peace of mind. It’s knowing when to stop, and sometimes it’s knowing when to give up.

Take Micro-Breaks: Music breaks, a few minutes of stretching, or even a quick dance break can add a bit of whimsy to your day and significantly impact your mental state.

Unplug on Weekends: Your weekends are for rejuvenation, not just recovery. It’s okay to say no to invitations, especially if your presence isn’t crucial. Turning down a social event to recharge isn’t anti-social; it’s self-care when you need it. And embrace DND, too much screen time and mindless scrolling should be substituted with a nap, your mind and body will thank you for it.

Savour the Small Things: How often do you rush through meals, or your favourite activities? When was the last time you really savoured a clean meal you made or noticed something new when you took a walk? Be honest, are you living and savouring or just enduring the day?

Redefine Selflessness: Taking responsibility for everything except yourself is not usually what it’s hyped up to be. Remember, it is impossible to pour from an empty cup, so set boundaries. Learn to say “no” firmly and without guilt. Your time and energy are finite resources.

Invest in Yourself: You owe it to yourself to really live. Take that course, learn that language, start over at 50, it’s never too late to fetch your life.

Take a Holiday: If a vacation is out of reach, arrange a staycation. Holidays do not always have to be a flight to Bali, it can be a weekend with a friend you really like. Get your hair done, window shop, or catch up over drinks you enjoy.

Nurture Relationships: Spend quality time with the people you love and open your heart to love. Forgive easily, love quickly, and regret nothing; it’s your first time here.

Cultivate Hobbies and Routines: Commit to a new hobby or revisit an old passion. Paint, garden, write, create something new, there’s something about bringing new things to life that feeds your purpose. Develop healthy routines that support your physical and mental well-being, you are all you’ve got. 

Your well-being is not a luxury; it’s the foundation upon which you can build a fulfilling and joyful life. And remember, it’s never too late to start, and you’re never “too anything”to enjoy your life.