I looked at the clock – it was 11 am. My weekend class of pilates was just about to start. I was very excited because it was my first class and I could not wait to stretch, move and meet like-minded people.
In the past one year, I have consciously tried to take up new things on weekends to help break the monotony and routine. A pottery class one week, a spa and a relaxing head massage the next and browsing bookstores with a cup of coffee in my hand on others. These small acts of self-care have made me feel lighter and given me something to look forward to.
However, even after all these efforts, it felt like I was only touching the surface. Deep within, things felt incomplete. It was during one such weekend that I met my best friend for lunch and had a heart-to-heart conversation about our lives. And she helped me place the missing piece. She said to me, “You know, sometimes the best self-care is having a purpose.” That simple sentence shifted something in me and made me rethink about what truly makes our souls sing.
According to research published by the American Psychiatric Association, a strong sense of purpose in life is closely linked to better mental health. The research showed how people with a clear purpose in life experienced less stress, lower levels of depression and anxiety. No matter what the age, background and education, those who felt their lives had meaning, coped better with challenges. So, having purpose can be motivating, healing and interestingly, also be the best form of self-care known to humans.
International Self-Care Day is celebrated on 24th July every year and it aims to raise awareness about the importance of taking care of our physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. Whether it’s through healthy eating, regular exercise, rest or by simply setting boundaries. This day urges people to take small steps towards a healthier and more balanced life. On this special day, join us as we explore how living a life of purpose can be the missing piece of our self-care puzzle.
I remember when I started my career; I took up jobs that did not align with my interests or passion. I did them because at that time, it felt like the only option I was going to get. But deep down, I was unhappy. So, I would drag myself to work every morning and get through my day like work was nothing but a chore. Then somewhere along the way, I discovered my love for writing. At first, it was a creative way to express how I was feeling, but over the years, it became clear that it was much more than that.
When you have a clear purpose, you wake up with intention. Whether it’s because you believe in a field or subject deeply or it is a desire to be a better parent or friend, having a reason to get out of bed each day with positivity and do something, gives your life direction and stability. When your days have purpose, it becomes one of the most powerful forms of self-care.
Start by exploring the things that you are passionate about as these have the power to genuinely motivate you.
Yes, our life experiences and circumstances can shift our sense of purpose from time to time.
Living with purpose enhances self-care, but doesn’t replace it. You still need rest and rejuvenation to thrive.
Feeling lost can be a sign that you’re ready to grow. Try exploring creative outlets or journaling to understand what matters to you. Once you know, you can start your journey.
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