And there I am crying in the arms of my partner. Attempting to write this blog about self-care for high-achieving ladies, such as myself. I am feeling exhausted and pulled in many directions. I’m thinking about all that I need and want to do, how to make sure others know how hard I work, and trying to keep all the pieces of my life intact. Between the tasks I have signed up for and my usual daily tasks, this has been a challenging week. Despite my best efforts of trying to get everything done I still seem to be falling short. My partner attempts to console me, but it feels like pacification. He reminds me of all that I have taken on in the past weeks and encourages me to rest. Sadly, all I can hear is that I’m not keeping up with everything like I’m supposed to. Initially, I did not see the irony. After a much-needed nap, now I do!
The world never stops moving. In modern-day society independence and self-sufficiency are glorified. In an attempt to keep up with the world and society, it is unsurprising that high-achieving women struggle to slow down and ask for help. High-achieving women have a commendable drive for success, but the relentless pursuit of goals can lead to neglecting their own well-being. Self-care is the critical intervention that high-achieving women need. This transformative practice not only nurtures their minds and bodies but also empowers them to recognize the importance of seeking support when needed. In this blog post, we will explore the top three reasons why self-care is crucial for high-achieving women who grapple with asking for help.
#1 Restoring Balance and Preventing Burnout
Often, high-achieving women wear multiple hats, some real and some perceived. While we may wear a variety of hats the most common ones are juggling career demands, family responsibilities, and personal ambitions. High achievers commonly place added pressure on themselves by attempting to excel in every aspect of life. The consequence of these pressures is overwhelming. Engaging in self-care activities allows these women to restore balance and prevent burnout. For example, taking a rejuvenating yoga class or engaging in women’s healing walks can help them reconnect with themselves and find solace in the present moment. By carving out time for self-care, they can make space to replenish their energy reserves and foster mental clarity, enabling them to face challenges with renewed effort.
#2 Cultivating Emotional Well-being
Many high-achieving women struggle with acknowledging and addressing their emotional needs. The idea of succumbing to their internal stress may bring up feelings of fear and failure. Self-care offers an opportunity to develop healthy engagement with their emotions. Increased emotional intelligence leads to healthier relationships with the inner self and others. Engaging in activities such as journaling, meditation, and/or counseling can help them identify and process their emotions effectively. Giving themselves permission to experience vulnerability and seek support opens the door to growth and self-acceptance. Remember, asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Research from Women @ Work 2023 notes "Pressure to be “always on” is also worse, with only 37% of women saying they are able to switch off from work compared to 45% in 2022. All this is set against a backdrop of worry when it comes to mental health, with more than half of women rating their mental health as a top concern."
#3 Enhancing Productivity and Creativity
Contrary to popular belief, self-care is not a luxury; it is an investment in personal growth and success. Taking time to recharge and care for oneself actually enhances productivity and creativity. When high-achieving women prioritize self-care, they are better equipped to tackle challenges, make informed decisions, and think creatively. For example, engaging in a hobby or pursuing a passion project can spark new ideas and provide a much-needed mental break. By valuing self-care, these women unlock their full potential and unleash their brilliance unto the world.
What To Remember
To all the high-achieving women who find it challenging to ask for help, I see you. I want you to remember that self-care is not selfish; it is an act of self-empowerment and self-preservation. You say you want to take on the world. You cannot do that if you are exhausted and unable to function. By embracing self-care, you can restore balance, cultivate emotional well-being, and enhance productivity and creativity. Whether you choose a relaxing spa day, have a heartfelt conversation with a trusted friend, or simply take time for reflection, self-care holds the key to unleashing your fullest potential and achieving sustainable success. You don’t have to wait until you’ve hit the proverbial and metaphorical wall while crying to your partner like me. You can start right now. Give yourself permission, restore and find your balance and cultivate emotional wellness, so that you might be the productive women you desire to be. After all, self-care isn't just an option; it's a necessity for thriving in this demanding world.
Did this blog post resonate with you? Are you ready to take the next step in helping yourself? Reach out to Arianna for a consultation and getting started on a path to healing!
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