Throughout this week at Ree’s Life, we have been discussing one simple self-care principle: If it feels wrong, don’t do it.
At first, those words may sound straightforward. However, putting them into practice can become difficult when work, family, finances, relationships, and responsibilities compete for our attention.
I understand that struggle because I am working through it too.
Right now, I am balancing my regular job, finding ways to earn more income, and continuing to build my business. Consequently, I have been thinking more carefully about where I spend my time and energy.
Every opportunity does not automatically deserve a yes.
Permit Yourself to Pause
One lesson I am practicing is not answering every request at once.
Instead, I can say, “Let me think about it.”
That short sentence gives me time to consider whether something fits my priorities.
Likewise, you can ask yourself whether a new responsibility supports the life you are trying to build.
Will it help you reach an important goal?
Does it fit into your schedule?
Can you realistically manage it without sacrificing your well-being?
Most importantly, are you agreeing because you genuinely want to take part, or because you feel pressured?
Listen Without Letting Fear Control You
Listening to yourself does not mean avoiding everything uncomfortable.
Starting something new can feel uncomfortable. Similarly, pursuing a dream may require us to step outside our comfort zones.
Therefore, we need to find out why something feels wrong.
Fear of trying something new is different from recognizing that a situation conflicts with your values, safety, priorities, or boundaries.
When uncertainty appears, it slows down and gathers information. Afterward, make your decision instead of allowing pressure to make it for you.
Reminders Can Reinforce New Habits
Changing old habits takes practice.
For example, someone who has spent years automatically saying yes may need regular reminders that saying no is allowed.
Journaling can help. Additionally, affirmations, phone reminders, sticky notes, or meaningful clothing can reinforce the message you are practicing.
Seeing the same words repeatedly can encourage us to stop and reflect before falling back into an old pattern.
A Wearable Self-Care Reminder
That idea inspired this week’s addition to my Ree’s Life Self-Care Collection:
If It Feels Wrong, Don’t Do It.
I created the shirt as more than a slogan.
Instead, I see it as a wearable reminder to pause, think, and make intentional decisions.
When you see those words, I hope they remind you that your time matters.
Your energy matters.
Your values matter.
Your peace matters.
Protecting Your Peace Takes Practice
None of us will make the perfect decision every time.
Nevertheless, we can become more intentional about our choices.
Before automatically saying yes, pause.
Before ignoring a concern, investigate it.
Before allowing someone else’s expectations to figure out your decision, consider what is right for you.
Most importantly, remember that self-care extends beyond what we do when we are tired.
It also includes the decisions we make before we become exhausted.
As we finish Week 1 of this self-care journey, carry this reminder with you:
If it feels wrong, don’t do it.
Pause. Think. Trust yourself. Then choose intentionally.
References
National Institute of Mental Health – Caring for Your Mental Health
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health
American Psychological Association – Stress
https://www.apa.org/topics/stress
Mayo Clinic – Stress Management
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/basics/stress-basics/hlv-20049495
