How much are you still “you” when you’re in a relationship? Sometimes the lines get a little blurred. We start thinking about being part of a couple and less about being an individual. This can be good when it comes to the relationship itself. It can also make us neglectful of self-care.
Taking care of yourself should be a priority at every stage of your life. After all, if you’re not at your best, how can you be the best person for your significant other?
Let’s look at some ways to practice self-care even when you’re in a relationship.
Be Happy
It’s normal to think your lover is the ultimate source of happiness. Self-care kicks in when you remember there are other things which also make you happy. Just because you’re in a relationship doesn’t mean you have to give up the things which give you joy. Take time for yourself. Do the stuff which puts a smile on your face. Who knows, it might be your significant other will enjoy these things too.
Find a Friend
Your significant other shouldn’t be the only person in your life. Maintaining friendships is crucial to self-care. Take a little time away from your other half to spend time in old friendships. Catch a movie, go out to lunch, or just have a long conversation. Having diverse friendships is incredibly important to your mental health.
Protect Your Interests
You don’t have to agree to everything. Setting boundaries with any relationship is one of the most important aspects of self-care. There might be activities you have no wish to take part in. Or it might be you need some you time. whatever the case, remember it’s always OK to say no.
Enjoy a Hobby
What are some things you enjoy doing in your spare time? For the sake of your mental health, don’t neglect your hobbies. It’s good to create or spend time in things which give you pleasure. Consider setting some hobby time aside as part of your schedule so your significant other can likewise enjoy their hobbies too.
Make Goals
What’s something you want to do? There’s nothing wrong with having goals even when you’re part of a couple. Share your dreams with your significant other. Give them the space to share theirs with you. Together, work to achieve them.
Express What You Like…and What You Don’t
Being part of a couple means discovering new things all the time. Some you’ll like, some you won’t. When you express honestly how you feel you are practicing self-care by accepting your emotions without apology.
All of these things are important to your mental and emotional health. The key here is to recognize your significant other needs these same things as well. Together, make a practice of taking care of yourselves.