Self-Care vs Self-Investment

I’ve always been a tad suspicious of the term ‘self-care.’ It seems vague + disingenuous somehow, + is usually used to sell you something. This bothers me, as when we’re on the hunt for ‘self-care,’ typically we’re in a vulnerable state; we’re stressed, our emotions are unsettled... or at the very least we feel that something in our life is out of balance, + so we turn to search bars in the hope of finding something - anything - to make us feel better. 

However, I DO feel it’s super important to tend to one’s own mental, emotional + physical health. Making decisions that support your health may seem selfish but by keeping yourself in tip top shape, you’re better able to help others. Joseph Pilates was on the money when he said, “Not only is health a normal condition, but it is our duty not only to attain it but to maintain it.”

Sometimes keeping yourself healthy involves action - preparing a nourishing meal, going for a walk, planning your finances, etc. - at other times it requires a period of rest + recovery. Often, a little trial + error is needed to find balance between the two states; it’ll be different for everyone. 

I recently heard someone use the term ‘self-investment’; I like this description. It’s more direct + useful in the decision-making process: is sitting on the couch watching Netflix for 5 hours straight a good investment for your health? Probs not. But some likely encourage it as a form of ‘self-care’. 

Investment implies value + when you value yourself you suddenly become quite intentional in how you use your time + energy. It’s a simple change in mindset that helps build positive habits less reliant on willpower + self-control, + more centred around discernment. 

It’s not about the self-care face masks, aromatherapy baths + quick-fixes, it’s about putting in the work long term to build a lifestyle that supports you in doing what it is that you want to do.