5 of Our Favorite Self-Care Planning Strategies

Most of us are always searching for ways to cultivate self-care within facets of daily life. There is a long list of the benefits of self-care, including promoting positive health, flourishing in personal relationships, and manifesting adaptation when presented with big changes. So where do you start? We have compiled five of our favorite self-care planning strategies, which serve as a fantastic basis to start from and grow from there. Of course, self-care does not look the same for everyone, so explore what works for you and make tweaks where needed!

Journaling When Needed

We have all likely heard that it is beneficial to journal, and even better to make it a habit. But what if you give yourself permission to journal only when you feel like it? Planning and self-care should be a process that benefits you, so there is no need to force yourself to stick to one method or another. Try keeping Journaling Inserts at-hand and take the time to write whenever the feeling comes to you. Try not to force it. You will feel much more fulfilled when your self-care is not forced or rushed.

Mood Tracking With a Purpose

So, you have your Mood Trackers, and perhaps you have made mood tracking a habit. However, are you applying a purpose to your tracking? When you check in with yourself, have you explored what the information means, and how you can use it in the future? Start by setting a purpose for your mood tracking. Is its purpose to check-in and better understand yourself? Is it to have information that can be discussed with your therapist? Maybe its purpose is just for memory keeping. Regardless, set a purpose so that your self-care method is more concrete, and thus more fulfilling. You should feel proud of your self-reflection!

Writing and Reciting Daily Affirmations

Prepare a set of Sticky Notes - any sticky notes. Every day, write at least three affirmations for yourself. Since you will have written them on sticky notes, it can be placed nearby as a frequent reminder. You can place the list in the front of your planner, in your workplace, or simply on a nearby table. Using the guide in 2 Unique Ways to Explore Journaling in Your Planning, you can begin making tangible changes in your thinking, and continue to support yourself using self-care.

Romanticize the Small Things

Think about your favorite food or activity – your favorite memories associated with it, how it makes you feel, and what exactly makes it your favorite. It brings a smile to your face, doesn’t it? What if you use this feeling every day? Gather your absolute favorite planning or office supplies; it doesn’t matter if it’s two or twenty. (Well, maybe not actually twenty). Find a way to incorporate your favorites in your daily planning, or at least keep them nearby. For example, I have a favorite pen pouch that is kept near my workspace every day. I almost never reach for it, though! However, just seeing it every day contributes to my overall mood. It is okay to romanticize the small things!

Lean on Community

Did you know that there is a strong link between happiness and community? It makes sense – we’re social creatures! Even within the planning community, there is opportunity to foster friendship and appreciation. In the age of social media, it is a little easier to find these opportunities! Even in our Cloth & Paper Insider’s Facebook Group, planning enthusiasts are able to express excitement, exchange ideas, and seek advice. Sometimes, self-care is just interacting with others! Try taking the time to find your planning community – you just may surprise yourself.

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