From a Friend to a Friend: On Your Choice to Prioritize Yourself

When we allow ourselves to engage in self-care, we model to others that self-care is healthy, important and does not need to come with guilt.

𝒷𝓎 Marianne Wylie, MSW, RSW

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​The other day we had plans. You couldn’t make it because you needed to rest. You seemed hard on yourself for cancelling. I know the feeling. I can be hard on myself for needing to cancel on a friend too. In fact, I would often compromise my own mental or physical health just to avoid the guilt that comes with cancelling with someone.
 
But I want to thank you for caring for yourself. You showed me that taking care of yourself is a priority in your life. You value your wellness. You caring for yourself gives me permission to cancel and reschedule with a friend if I need to focus on my health. Let’s say bye to the guilt that can come with self-care. So, I thank you my friend for showing me I can care for myself too.

When we allow ourselves to engage in self-care, we model to others that self-care is healthy, important and does not need to come with guilt. Go ahead, take the time you need for you. It is healthy!