I developed this tool several years ago to help me make sense of this thing we call self-care. In addition, I believe we share some common beliefs, and one revolves around not being good enough and judging ourselves. Not only did this tool help me become clear what self-care is for me, it also confirmed my judgements about my lack of self-care were simply not true. Once you complete the assessment you will know where you stand with your self-care and be able to change up the recipe. I continue to attract evidence I fill my time with things I love and then I compare my self-care to the main stream ideation that self-care is a posh spa vacay or some magical retreat on a remote island. NOT!

What began as a self-care movement to help us feed our soul has evolved to a market based movement that defines our value based on how much we spend on our self-care. And excludes many vulnerable populations that are living below the poverty line. I believe wholeheartedly in self-care and know it does not have to come with a price tag. The Merriam-Webster online dictionary defines self-care as care for one self. Now, one might ask what does that look like?

I define self-care as anything that feeds my soul, brings me joy, grounds me, and fills my heart with lightness. My self-care includes daily rituals like journaling, exercise, and communing with nature. I add meditation, time with my grandkids and a lot of water sports. These all cost very little and each one fills my soul with love and connects me to my purpose and the fulfillment I want to experience in life.

Your turn. How do you define self-care? What feeds your soul? What brings you joy? What are those things you do and lose track of time? For a mom with two young kids, a 30 minute solo shower might be a delicious form of self-care. It is as unique as we are individuals. For a single mom, a bath at the end of the day might be considered self-care. It will be whatever it is for you. This quick check-in over a week will help you define and refine your definition of self-care and

possibly adjust your priorities, so you give to yourself first. Here is my sample week and a blank tool for you to print and keep handy for your daily check ins.

I have used this tool repeatedly when my inner critic emerges, and my results most often show how much I value self-care and spend time feeding my relationship with me.

Considering my average daily awake time of 16 hours, I have a total of 6,720 minutes available in a week. Take off work time, 2,000 minutes, leaves me 4,720. My sample self-care total is 2,150. Close to half of my available time! I think that is great! If you have any questions, feel free to email me at lucie@life-changesconsulting.com