How To Prioritise Yourself: 11 Strategies For Better Self-Care

Are you afraid to say "no" to people and don't know how to prioritise yourself? Do you feel like you're always putting other people's needs before your own?

Life can sometimes feel overwhelming—so much to do, so little time! With all the responsibilities that come with it, it can be easy to forget about yourself in the midst of it all, but prioritising yourself is essential if you want to achieve balance and fulfilment in your life. According to many experts, self-care is one of the most important components that contribute to a healthier work/life balance, but how exactly can we prioritise ourselves?

In this article, we will provide 11 actionable strategies that make it simpler than ever before to help you carve out some "me" time each day!

From setting boundaries around your free time to carving out daily mindfulness moments and prioritising tasks more efficiently; this comprehensive guide contains all the information needed to get started right away.

Get ready to learn how easy it can be to start putting yourself first again—read on for practical steps on how to prioritise yourself today!

 

Benefits of Prioritising Yourself

Knowing first the benefits of prioritising yourself is essential to understanding why it’s so important.

Here are some of the main benefits that you can expect to experience when you start prioritising yourself:

Improved mental health

When you prioritise yourself, it can lead to improved mental health. Taking the time to focus on your own needs and wants can help reduce stress and anxiety, allowing you to feel more relaxed and in control of your life.

Removing all those elements of negative energy in your life can enable you to be so much happier and healthier.

Our mental health is just as important as our physical health, and prioritising yourself is a great way to ensure that you’re taking care of both.

Increased productivity

Another benefit that comes with prioritising yourself is increased productivity.

When you take the time to focus on your own needs, it can help you stay motivated and energised throughout the day. This in turn gives you extra time to tackle all those tasks and projects on your priority list.

Furthermore, it can also help you stay focused and organised, which can lead to even more productivity.

Better relationships

Putting yourself first can lead to healthier relationships. When you take the time to focus on your own needs and wants, it can help you become more aware of your boundaries and how to communicate them effectively.

This will make it easier for you to build healthier relationships with others as well as maintain existing ones.

Giving yourself priority can help increase your confidence in making decisions and can lead to establishing deeper relationships.

Boosts self-Esteem

Boosting self-esteem is another key benefit of prioritising yourself.

By taking time to prioritise your needs and wants, you can increase your self-confidence and capabilities. This can lead to improved self-esteem, which can have a positive impact on all aspects of your life.

Taking the time to focus on yourself can also help you become more aware of your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to make better decisions in the future.

Creates greater happiness

Putting your own needs first can be a great way to increase your happiness levels. Making time for yourself and listening to your wants and desires can contribute greatly to your overall contentment.

This can lead to improved mental health, increased productivity, better relationships, and a boost in self-esteem.

Prioritising yourself also gives you the opportunity to do things that make you happy. Whether it’s taking a yoga class, going for a walk in nature, or simply taking some time to relax and read a book, prioritising yourself can help you find more joy in life.

Now that you understand the advantages of prioritising your tasks, you might be keen to explore strategies. Here are a few that you can use.

11 Strategies on How to Prioritise Yourself

Taking care of yourself should be a priority, and it can have beneficial effects on your mental wellbeing. Here are 11 strategies to help you prioritise yourself:

1. Understand your needs

The first step in figuring out how to prioritise yourself is to understand your needs. Take some time to reflect on what you need in order to feel happy and fulfilled.

This could include physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Once you have a better understanding of your needs, it will be easier for you to prioritise them and make sure they are met.

Recognise what is important to you

Knowing what matters to you is a crucial step in putting yourself first. Take some time to think about what matters most to you, and make sure that these things are given priority in your life.

This could include spending quality time with family and friends, pursuing hobbies or interests, or simply taking some time for yourself.

Once you have identified what is important to you, it will be easier to make sure that these things are given priority.

Identify your values

Knowing your values is key to taking care of yourself. Values are the truths that you believe in and that direct your choices and behavior.

Take some time to think about what matters most to you, and make sure that these values are reflected in how you prioritise your tasks. This could include things like honesty, integrity, respect, or compassion.

Once you have identified your values, it will be easier to make sure that they are reflected in how you prioritise your tasks.

Establish boundaries

Setting boundaries is a key part of self-care. These are the limits that you set for yourself and those around you to ensure your safety, both mentally and emotionally.

Take some time to think about what boundaries you need to set in order to take care of yourself. This could include setting limits on how much time you spend with certain people or activities, or saying no when you need to.

Once you have established your boundaries, it will be easier to make sure that they are respected.

 

2. Learn your limits

Knowing your limits is a key element of taking care of yourself first. Everyone has different capacities, and it’s important to recognise what yours are. Take some time to think about how much you can realistically handle in terms of work, social commitments, and other activities.

Once you have a better understanding of your limits, it will be easier for you to prioritise tasks accordingly.

Identifying when you are feeling overwhelmed

It is important to recognise when you are feeling overwhelmed and take steps to address it. This could include taking a break or engaging in self-care activities.

When you start to feel overwhelmed, it is important to take some time for yourself and focus on what will help you feel better. This could include going for a walk, listening to music, or simply taking some time to relax.

Having a calm and positive mindset is essential for prioritising yourself.

OCCO London is committed to supporting creatives, therefore we offer the Morning Mindset Journal, which will guide you through a morning routine to help you start your day with a peaceful and positive headspace and alleviate any potential stress.

Learning to say no

Knowing when to decline commitments is an essential part of taking care of yourself.

It can be difficult to turn down requests from friends, family, or colleagues, but it is essential for looking after your own wellbeing.

When you are faced with a request that you don’t feel comfortable with, it is important to remember that it is okay to say no. This could include saying no to social events, extra work, or anything else that you don’t feel comfortable with.

Taking breaks when needed

Setting aside time for breaks is essential for self-care. It is essential to take regular breaks throughout the day in order to give your mind and body a chance to rest and recharge.

This could include taking a few minutes each hour to stretch, meditate, or simply take some time away from your work. Taking regular breaks can help you stay focused and productive throughout the day.

To assist you in gaining balance, we present this Weekly Planner Pad so that instead of saying no to everything, you can do all the other things you need in your life.

3. Make time for yourself and recharge

Setting aside time for yourself is key to looking after your well-being. Even with a busy schedule, it's important to carve out time for yourself to relax and recharge.

This could include taking a few minutes each day to do something that you enjoy, such as reading a book, going for a walk, or simply taking some time to relax.

We suggest you use our Weekly Planner Pad to help you plan out your week and make sure that you are taking time for yourself.

Setting aside time for self-care activities

Making time for self-care is crucial for your mental and physical health. Doing so can help you de-stress, raise your spirits, and replenish your energy.

These activities could include anything from taking a hot bath or shower to going for a walk, reading a book, listening to music, or engaging in any other activity that you find enjoyable.

It is important to remember that self-care activities don’t have to be expensive or time-consuming, and can be as simple as taking a few minutes each day to do something that you enjoy.

Practising relaxation techniques

Practising relaxation techniques is an important part of prioritising yourself. Relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and increase your overall wellbeing.

These techniques could include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, or any other activity that helps you relax and unwind.

It is important to find a technique that works for you and practise it regularly in order to reap the benefits.

 

4. Eating healthy and regular exercise

Eating healthy and getting regular exercise are essential for your wellbeing. Eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help boost your energy levels and keep you feeling energised throughout the day.

Regular exercise can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and increase overall wellbeing. It is important to find an activity that you enjoy and make it a part of your daily routine.

Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet

Eating healthily and in moderation is important for taking care of yourself.

Eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help boost your energy levels and keep you feeling energised throughout the day. It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and increase overall wellbeing.

It is important to make sure that you are eating a variety of foods and getting the nutrients that your body needs.

Regular exercise or physical activity

Making time for physical activity can help you prioritise yourself and boost your wellbeing. Exercise can reduce stress, aid sleep, and improve overall health. Find something enjoyable to do and make sure it's part of your regular routine.

This could include anything from going for a walk or jog to playing a sport, doing yoga or Pilates, or any other form of physical activity that you enjoy.

5. Get enough sleep and incorporate routine sleep habits

Getting enough sleep is essential for taking care of yourself. Sleep helps to restore energy, reduce stress, and improve overall wellbeing.

It is important to make sure that you are getting enough sleep each night and incorporating routine sleep habits into your daily life.

Routine sleep habits can include going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, avoiding screens before bedtime, and creating a relaxing environment in your bedroom.

A sufficient amount of sleep every night

Adults should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, while children and teenagers need more. Creating a relaxing environment in your bedroom can help you get the sleep you need.

This could include dimming the lights, using a white noise machine, and avoiding screens before bedtime.

Keeping a consistent sleep schedule is essential for getting enough rest. Set a regular bedtime and wake up time every day to help regulate your body’s internal clock, enabling you to fall asleep more easily and wake up feeling refreshed.

6. Make connections and foster relationships that support you

Fostering relationships with people who support and encourage you is an important part of prioritising yourself. Connecting with friends, family, and colleagues can help boost your mood and provide emotional support when needed.

Making time for social activities such as going out for dinner or drinks, attending events, or simply catching up over the phone can help foster meaningful connections that will benefit your wellbeing.

Socialising with family and friends

Connecting with loved ones through conversations and shared experiences can help lessen stress, lift your spirits, and give you emotional support.

Knowing that someone is there to listen and support you can be incredibly beneficial for your wellbeing. Also, don’t forget to show your appreciation for those who are there for you.

7. Set goals and celebrate small steps forward towards your goals

Setting goals for yourself and rewarding your successes along the way is an important part of making yourself a priority. Goals provide direction and motivation, as well as a sense of accomplishment when you reach them.

You may treat yourself to a simple reward for reaching a goal, such as a massage or a night out with friends. Celebrating small steps forward towards your goals can help to keep you motivated and on track.

Setting manageable milestones/timeframes towards your goal(s)

Achieving your goal(s) can be easier if you break them down into small, achievable tasks with realistic deadlines.

Setting realistic goals with achievable deadlines can help keep you motivated and on track. Creating smaller, more manageable tasks that are within reach will help you to celebrate each step along the way.

This will also give you a sense of accomplishment when you reach your goal.

Celebrating each milestone's completion and giving yourself credit

Achieving your goals takes effort, so recognising and acknowledging each milestone is key to rewarding yourself. Celebrating your achievements helps make the journey to your destination more enjoyable.

Celebrating even the smallest successes towards your objectives can help you stay driven and on course.

8. Practise mindfulness and self-awareness

Focusing on yourself and being mindful are keys to making sure your needs come first. Practising mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and emotions, allowing you to better understand yourself and your needs.

It can also help reduce stress and anxiety by helping you stay in the present moment rather than worrying about the future or ruminating on the past.

Mindfulness activities such as yoga, meditation, and journaling can help cultivate self-awareness and foster a sense of wellbeing.

Being mindful of your thoughts and feelings

Taking time to be aware of your thoughts and emotions can help you understand who you are and what you need. Practising mindfulness can help lessen stress and anxiety by helping you stay focused on the present instead of worrying about the future or dwelling on the past.

Being mindful of your thoughts and feelings can help you become more aware of what is important to you, allowing you to prioritise yourself accordingly.

9. Prioritise tasks and delegate when possible

Giving yourself priorities is an essential step in self-care. It can be difficult to manage the various duties that arise, so it's important to determine which ones are vital and focus on them first.

Delegating tasks when possible can also help you prioritise yourself. If there are tasks that you don’t have the time or energy for, consider delegating them to someone else.

Making a list of tasks to complete each day

Writing out your duties and assigning due dates is an effective way to prioritise. This list can help you stay organised and on task.

It also allows you to break down large projects into smaller, more manageable tasks.

Making a list of tasks also helps you to prioritise your time and energy, allowing you to focus on the most important tasks first.

Prioritising tasks based on importance and urgency

Arranging tasks according to importance and urgency is a great strategy for tackling the most important items first. Assessing the importance and urgency of each task can help you determine which ones should be tackled first.

For example, if a task is both important and urgent, it should take precedence over one that is only important or only urgent. This will help you to prioritise yourself and make sure that your most important tasks are completed in a timely manner.

OCCO London provides the Priority Pad to assist individuals like you in focusing on activities that are most important, guiding and aligning your action plan.

10. Take time to unplug and disconnect

Taking time to unplug and disconnect from technology is an important part of self-care.

Technology can be a great tool for staying connected, but it can also be overwhelming and distracting. Taking regular breaks from your devices can help you focus on yourself and prioritise your needs.

Unplugging from technology gives you the opportunity to take a break from the constant stream of notifications, emails, and messages. This can help you to relax and refocus on yourself.

Disconnect from technology and social media

Taking a break from the digital world and focusing on the present moment can help you prioritise yourself.

Disconnecting from technology and social media can help you take a step back and focus on your own needs. This can be beneficial for both your mental and physical health, as it allows you to take a break from the constant stimulation of the digital world.

11. Practise gratitude and appreciate the little things

Gratitude and recognising the good things in everyday life can help you put yourself first. Focusing on what matters to you and taking time for your own needs is extremely important.

Focusing on the good in your life can help you to appreciate all that you have, allowing you to take a step back and prioritise yourself.

Gratitude can also be a great way to boost your mood and reduce stress, making it easier to prioritise yourself.

Being thankful for what you have in life

Being thankful for what you have in life is an important part of taking care of yourself and prioritising yourself. Taking the time to appreciate all that you have can help you focus on the positive aspects of your life and be grateful for them.

It can also help to put things into perspective, allowing you to recognise that there are many things in life that are worth being thankful for. Practising gratitude can help you prioritise yourself and make sure that your needs are met.

Writing down three things you are grateful for each day

Having a daily gratitude practise of writing down three things you are thankful for can help you stay focused on the good in your life and centre yourself. Taking the time to recognise all that you have in life can help you appreciate what matters most to you and make sure that your needs are met.

Regular practise can have positive impacts on your mental health, such as reducing stress and improving your mood.

We have developed The Morning Mindset Journal to help you journal and start the day as you mean to go on.

In conclusion, there are several ways to prioritise yourself. Consider following the strategies we discussed, and you will be better able to look after your health and wellbeing.

Despite understanding the strategies explained, there could still be some queries left unanswered. We have attempted to answer a range of common and complex questions in relation to this subject. Let's take a look at some commonly asked questions regarding this topic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to how to prioritise yourself: Y

Can I still achieve a good work/life balance if I prioritise myself more often?

One can have a successful career and a harmonious life by focusing on personal wellbeing.

Taking the time to focus on your own needs and wellbeing can help you stay productive and motivated in both your professional and personal lives. It is important to remember that self-care should be a priority, as it can help you manage stress and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Setting boundaries between work and leisure time can also help you achieve a good balance.

Are there any lifestyle changes that I can make to help me prioritise myself better?

Making certain lifestyle adjustments can assist you in giving yourself the attention you deserve.

Firstly, it is important to make time for yourself and your own needs. This could include taking regular breaks throughout the day, setting aside time for relaxation or hobbies, and making sure to get enough sleep.

It is also important to practise healthy habits such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding unhealthy substances.

Finally, it is important to surround yourself with positive people and activities that make you feel good.

How often should I prioritise myself?

Taking care of yourself should be a priority in order to sustain your emotional and physical health. When you make time for your own needs, it can help keep you successful and motivated, in both your professional and personal lives.

Ideally, you should prioritise yourself at least once a day. This could include taking breaks throughout the day, setting aside time for relaxation or hobbies, and making sure to get quality sleep.

Are there any apps or tools available to help me prioritise myself?

A variety of apps and tools are available to help you manage your time effectively. These can be used to track your daily activities, set reminders for yourself, and stay organised.

For example, the app "My Day" allows users to create personalised goals and tasks that can be tracked throughout the day. This app also provides helpful tips on how to prioritise yourself and manage stress.

Moreover, there are many online tools and resources to help with self-care. These might include guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, and other activities dedicated to personal wellbeing.

Is there a difference between selfishness and prioritising myself?

There is indeed a contrast between being selfish and attending to your own needs. Selfishness is putting your desires ahead of those of others without considering potential implications.

On the other hand, prioritising yourself means taking care of your own needs in order to be able to better take care of others.

When you prioritise yourself, it does not mean that you are neglecting the needs of others. It simply means that you are taking the time to focus on your own well-being in order to better serve others.

Conclusion

We hope you now have an idea of how to prioritise yourself for better self-care.

Prioritising yourself is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress. Taking the time to focus on your own needs can help you stay productive and motivated in both your professional and personal lives. There are a variety of tools available to help you manage your time effectively, such as apps and online resources.

It is important to remember that prioritising yourself does not mean being selfish; it simply means taking the time to focus on your own wellbeing in order to be able to better serve others.

Don't be afraid. Make yourself a priority!

We hope you find this article helpful, and please don't forget to share it with your friends, colleagues, and family who may be seeking answers. Your feedback is always welcome.

At OCCO London, we are dedicated to helping you prioritise yourself and your wellbeing.