This year has been challenging. The global pandemic has seen us juggling more balls than usual, whilst trying to make sense of our new normal. Dynamics at both work and home have changed, mental health issues are on the rise, and we are grappling with the financial implications of the lockdown in South Africa.
Many have had to question their relationship with alcohol (as sales have been limited under lockdown regulations), and gender-based violence has been an increasingly frequent and alarming topic. The world as we know it is no longer, and we've been forced to address challenging issues sooner than we would have liked.
This women's day I think we need to catch-up around the concept of self-love. With much going on, many concerns and changes, it's easy to lose sight of our "self" and our own wellbeing. So, to stay sane and healthy during these uncertain times, make yourself a priority!
Make time for self-care
Whilst washing your hands, wearing a mask and practising social distancing are critical in preventing the spread of covid19, so is maintaining a healthy lifestyle and immune system.
Remember you can't pour from an empty cup. It's essential to prioritise your own mental, physical and spiritual health. Making time to care for and look after yourself should be a non-negotiable.
Be kind to yourself
Be mindful of your inner dialogue. There is never a good time for negative self-talk, but this is even more relevant during such trying times. We're all human, and we're all navigating these uncertain times together – you're going to lose the plot sometimes, drop the ball and make a mistake – and this is okay.
Practice self-compassion, better yet, let it become so ingrained that it becomes merely a habit.
You are enough
Understand your strengths and your limitations. There is this desire to be perfect, superhuman even. We put ourselves under immense pressure when, in reality, we are enough. You are enough.
Learn to be realistic in your expectations of yourself. Accept your shortcomings, embrace your natural talents. Work smarter, not harder.
Self-care, self-compassion and self-acceptance are the building blocks of self-love. We shouldn't need the 9th August, women's day in South Africa, to be reminded that looking after our "self" is not selfish, but rather an imperative, non-negotiable priority.