- Guest Contributor
- May 24, 2021
When was the last time you took a break to treat yourself? As a member of the gig economy, I understand the demands independent workers face. But all work and no play can lead to physical, emotional, mental, social, and spiritual problems. Take time to treat yourself because self-care is worth the time. Let’s learn more about the value of daily self-care as we invest in ourselves and our businesses.
1. Customize Your Self-Care
When you hear the words “treat yourself,” what activities do you think of? Maybe a spa day, outdoor hike or exercise, or online gaming are ways you care for yourself. Or maybe you like to throw axes, build dollhouse furniture or read books in Latin. Personally, I love reading a book while sipping coffee!
The beauty of self-care is that there is no single or right way to treat yourself. There are endless ways to unwind. We each get to customize our self-care and choose the activities that are meaningful for us.
Another plus is that self-care is highly personalized. The activities that comprise self-care for you may not nurture someone else, so don’t dismiss what you love or tell someone else that their self-care is wrong. We can enjoy a variety of different self-care activities as we relax each day.
2. Reduce Burnout When you Treat Yourself
If we run our computer, car or vacuum non-stop for weeks on end, the engine, belts and other parts will wear out. Our bodies and minds work the same way.
Your body and mind can indeed withstand significant demands, stress and pressure. And a commitment to ongoing learning and growing can develop your career and help you achieve success. But overwork will lead to a breakdown eventually.
Consider some common signs of burnout.
- Exhaustion
- Decreased immunity
- Headaches
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Cynicism and negativity
- Rigidity or stubbornness
- Substance abuse
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, you must take a break to relax, rest and recharge. And create a self-care routine, too. With regular rest, your body and mind are more likely to function properly and you’re less likely to feel burned out.
3. Normalize Self-Care
The gig economy is traditionally feast or famine. As independent workers, many of us tend to hustle and push ourselves in order to land more gigs or finish projects. We’re solely responsible for our success and may think that taking time off will result in a loss of gigs, clients and income.
But everyone needs a break. So let’s change the trend to overwork and normalize self-care.
When we prioritize self-care, we set a good example for others. We contribute to changing the misperception that taking time off will lead to failure as a gig worker. In fact, you empower yourself and support others in the industry when you treat yourself and achieve work-life balance.
In fact, self-care boosts our productivity, focus, concentration, and abilities. We owe it to ourselves and others in our industry to take regular breaks and add self-care to our daily routine.
Self-Care is Worth the Time
Plan today to treat yourself, and add self-care to your daily routine. Investing in yourself is time and money well spent to ensure you’re always at your best.
About the Author: Jennifer Turner writes web content for a variety of clients. As a gig worker, she understands the benefits and challenges of the industry, which is why she prioritizes daily self-care. Find her at WriterAccess.
