The vital role of self care in helping others.

Self-care is not selfish; in fact, it's a prerequisite for effectively being of service to others. I vividly recall my time in grad school, where the mantra "we cannot give from an empty cup" and the wisdom of "putting on our oxygen mask before helping others" were constant reminders. While our program acknowledged the significance of self-care, the expectations and norms often made it a challenging endeavor. Little did I know that this was just the dress rehearsal for the demands I would encounter working in social service agencies, where scheduling over lunch and staying late were the norms.

I'll never forget a piece of advice from my first supervisor at my first "real" job in Connecticut. She warned me to be cautious about what I said yes to, as it would become the expectation. This counsel would only fully resonate with me years later. Many in the service industry are drawn to it because of their deep desire to help others. However, when compassion becomes a business, sustainability is at risk.

Recently, I was in conversation with an environmentalist about the shift from focusing on sustainability to regenerativity. It struck me that healthcare, too, needs to make this shift. We cannot continue living on fumes and then wonder why we're breaking down. We must let go of the ivory tower notion of the well treating the sick and embrace the truth that we are simply people treating other people. To continue this essential work, we must intentionally and regularly replenish ourselves.

Self-care doesn't have to be a grand indulgence involving bubble baths, candles, and fuzzy robes (although those are lovely). It can be as simple as saying no when needed, leaving the laundry for a warm cup of coffee, ignoring unread emails, doodling with a new pen, or taking a few moments to sit in your car before starting your day. What matters is that it leaves you feeling a bit more cared for and resourced than before.

So, how will you take care of yourself this weekend?