In this whirlwind of life, it’s very easy to lose sight of the one person who truly matters the most: yourself. Yep, you heard me right. In this marathon of meetings, deadlines, life, family, friends, and endless to-do lists, it’s crucial to remember that looking after number one – that’s you – isn’t selfish, it’s survival.

According to a Gallup study, 76% of employees experience burnout at least sometimes, with 28% reporting it “frequently” or “always”. In Germany, burnout is also a recognized problem. A study by the Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) health insurance company found that around 16% of employees in Germany reported experiencing burnout symptoms. According to the Robert Koch Institute, around 27% of adults in Germany experience a mental disorder within a year, with anxiety and depression being the most common.

Let’s begin with a quick check-in. Taking a moment to pause and check in with yourself is an important practice for maintaining balance and well-being in your life. Here are some questions to help you tune into your needs, emotions, and overall state of mind:

• How Am I Really Feeling Right Now?

• Am I Giving Myself the Care and Attention I Deserve?

• What Small Changes Can I Make Today to Prioritise My Well-being?

• Am I Honouring My Boundaries?

• What Am I Grateful For Today?

• How Can I Practice Self-Compassion?

• What Brings Me Joy and Fulfilment?

• Am I Listening to My Body?

1. Mental Health Matters: Taking care of your mental well-being is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Self-care activities like meditation, journaling, or simply spending time doing things you love can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

2. Boosts Productivity: Contrary to popular belief, constantly grinding away at work without taking breaks doesn’t make you more productive – it leads to burnout. Incorporating regular self-care practices into your routine will enhance your focus, creativity, and overall performance.

3. Enhances Relationships: Ever notice how you’re a much nicer person to be around when you’ve had a good night’s sleep or a relaxing day off? Investing in self-care not only benefits you but also those around you. When you’re feeling balanced and fulfilled, you’re better equipped to show up as your best self in your relationships.

4. Builds Resilience: Life is full of ups and downs, twists and turns. Self-care acts as a buffer against the inevitable challenges that come your way. By nurturing your mind, body, and spirit, you’ll build resilience and be better prepared to handle whatever life throws at you.

5. Set a Positive Example: Whether you’re a parent, a friend, or a colleague, people look up to you. By prioritising self-care, you’re not only improving your own well-being but also setting a positive example for those around you. You’re showing them that it’s okay to prioritise yourself and that self-love isn’t selfish – it’s necessary.

So, the next time you feel guilty for taking a break or indulging in a little self-care, remember this: you’re not being lazy, you’re being proactive about your health and happiness. And that, my friend, is something worth celebrating. 

I am very passionate about mental health and the struggles that come with it, today I’ve briefly touched on why self-care or checking in with yourself is important. Tomorrow, I’ll delve deeper into burnout: the signs, the effects and the ways to help yourself out of it. 

Disclaimer: I am not a mental healthcare professional.

See you tomorrow for Part II!