Today I want to talk about something that’s at the core of true self-care: giving yourself what no one else can. Whether it’s working out, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, or fueling your body with the right nutrition, these are all opportunities to nurture yourself in ways that external sources simply can’t.
The Illusion of External Fulfillment
Imagine being at a party, surrounded by people, yet still feeling lonely. Social connection is undeniably important—studies have shown that strong social bonds contribute to longevity. However, if you can’t enjoy time alone, that’s a major red flag. Deep down, part of your subconscious recognizes that external interactions aren’t fully satisfying your inner needs, leading to feelings of emptiness and anxiety.
The same applies to sleep. If you’re constantly running on fumes, your body will seek rest and relaxation in unhealthy ways—binge-watching Netflix, overconsuming caffeine, or indulging in alcohol. These vices often stem from an underlying imbalance caused by neglecting your fundamental needs.
The Ripple Effect of Self-Care
The funny thing is, when people start prioritizing these basic but essential habits, their entire life improves. Clients often tell me that their relationships get better, their work performance improves, and their overall sense of well-being skyrockets. Why? Because when you take responsibility for your own well-being, you stop blaming others for your problems.
If you’re not getting enough quality sleep, you might find yourself easily irritated and distracted, blaming coworkers, family members, or even minor inconveniences for your frustration. But when you commit to a healthy sleep routine, you unlock a version of yourself that’s more patient, focused, and present. The same applies to exercise, hydration, and nutrition.
Your Challenge: Commit to One Habit
So here’s my challenge to you: pick one area of self-care—sleep, nutrition, hydration, or exercise—and commit to it for one week. Every single day, do that one thing perfectly. And “perfect” is up to you to define.
For me, it’s a strict bedtime of 10:30 PM—no exceptions. When I don’t stick to it, I become irritable, less focused, and a worse husband, father, and professional. It’s a small habit with a massive impact.
What will your commitment be? Choose one habit, stick to it, and see how it transforms your daily life. Let me know in the comments what you’re committing to, and let’s hold each other accountable!
If you liked this, check out my courses at Four Lights Wellness, where I cover both physical and mental aspects of wellness. My course Healing (e)Motions: Trauma Release Exercises for People with Stress offers targeted physiological exercises aimed at reducing stress and mental health dysfunctions that can contribute to physical pain.
You can also sign up for my newsletter or subscribe to my Substack, which is packed with tips and insights on living a healthier, happier life. Additionally, if you’re curious about how these practices can be tailored specifically to your needs, I offer a free consultation to see if working together 1:1 could be beneficial. Let’s keep building that foundation and enjoy a happy, healthy life!