Developing a Positive Mindset for Self-Care

Self-care is vital to healthy living on many levels. It helps us to become the optimum 
version of ourselves. Our actions and attitudes are core components of self-care, and 
having the right mental outlook is a key to regulating wellness. Developing a positive 
mindset for self-care requires a commitment and work. The rewards are well worth the 
effort.

Realize that Self-Care is a Right and a Responsibility

Many individuals today have been conditioned to believe that putting themselves first is 
selfish. Perhaps you have heard the term "buyer's remorse." This happens when 
someone experiences guilt after making a purchase for themselves. It is a sad reality 
that some people have buyer's remorse when it comes to investing in their own self-
care.

The right mindset accepts that self-care is a right. You are worthy of the time and effort 
it takes to create fulfillment. You have the right to be mentally and physically well. No 
one is entitled to diminish your need for self-care.

Furthermore, personal wellness is a responsibility. A good mindset means accepting 
responsibility for the path of your life. It is all too common today for people to lay blame 
when it comes to their own challenges. Taking responsibility empowers you. There is 
great comfort that comes from knowing you are in control.

Create a New Mental Narrative

We spend our whole lives telling ourselves a mental story. That story frames how we 
perceive the world and our reactions to life's twists and turns. Close your eyes for just a 
second and listen to the story your mind is telling. Is it filled with empowering phrases 
and images, or is it polluted by a negative outlook?

You must learn how to rewrite the mental script that is often on auto play. A great way to 
do this can be to simply slow the endless procession of thoughts and noise. Meditation 
is a great way to quiet the mind and refocus on positive thoughts. This, too, takes effort, 
but in time the flow and substance of your own mental narrative can change for the 
better.

Stop Consuming Mental Junk Food

We live in the era of social media. These platforms can be useful for communicating 
with distant friends and relatives or even finding a story to lift your spirits. Unfortunately, 
they can also be toxic. There is far too much junk food for the brain on social media.

Your brain is a body organ that requires sustenance and nutrition just like your heart or 
lungs. It needs to be fed the good stuff. That hour you spend perusing a news feed that 
is filled with controversy, self-pitying posts, and mind-numbing videos would be better 
spent doing yoga or reading a book on the subject of wellness. Allow yourself to detach 
from social media and observe the results.

The mind can sometimes be unruly and must be disciplined. It must also be exercised 
just like the body is conditioned. In the beginning the work will be hard, but with each 
passing day you'll find that your mindset is working on your behalf to promote self-care.

