Struggling being consistent with self care ? You’re not the only one.
If you have a self care routine that is time consuming or not aligned with what you need, you may find yourself struggling to keep up. Or
Plus not everyone is meant to have a self care routine.
So, how do you know if your self-care routine is off? Let’s dive into the signs and, more importantly, how to fix it.
Step 1: Understand the Common Signs and Symptoms
The first step in recognizing a self-care routine that isn’t working is taking a deep look at how you feel and show up for your routine. Everyone’s style of routine is different but here are some common signs to look out for:
Emotional Signs Your Self-Care Routine Isn’t Working
Self-care should make you feel better, not worse. But if your routine is off, you may feel some of these ways:
1. You Feel Guilty or Pressured
Do you ever feel bad about skipping your self-care routine? Like, if you don’t follow your routine perfectly or miss a day, that you’re failing at self care?
Self-care isn’t supposed to make you feel guilty or like you’re falling behind. If you’re dreading your routine, it’s may be time to rethink it and find some more sustainable practices..
2. It’s Not Fun Anymore
If your self-care feels more like a chore than something you look forward to, then it’s probably safe to say you might need to change things up.
If you find yourself forcing yourself to do something because everyone else swears by it (yoga, meditation, journaling), but you secretly hate it… That’s a sign it’s time to find something that actually feels good to you.
3. You’re Emotionally Drained
Trying to do too much self-care can leave you feeling burned out. Juggling a packed routine—yoga, journaling, cooking from scratch—can feel like another full-time job.
When self-care starts draining your energy instead of boosting it, you know something’s gotta change.
Ask yourself: Have I been feeling this way for more than a couple of weeks?
If yes, it might be time to take a deeper look at what your routine is really doing (or not doing) for you.
Taking down your routine a notch and creating small pockets of self care in your day can help ease the emotional load.
Behavioral Signs It’s Time to Change Things Up
Emotions aren’t the only sign that your routine may not be working for you. Sometimes it’s your actions that reveal your self-care routine isn’t the right fit. Do you resonate with any of these behavioral signs that your self care routine might not be working?
1. You Keep Putting It Off
Do you catch yourself skipping or avoiding your self-care activities? Maybe you say, “I’ll journal later,” but later never comes.
That avoidance might mean your routine doesn’t really fit your needs or your lifestyle. It’s important that you find your self care style and know what kind of self care works for you.
2. You’re Overdoing One Thing
If your idea of self-care has become journaling every second you get or making rest your motto, it might mean you’re stuck in a rut.
Don’t get me wrong, a movie marathon or pizza night is great once in a while, but if it’s your go-to, you might need to balance it out with other ways to recharge.
3. It Feels Overwhelming
When your self-care routine feels like it’s taking over your day, that’s a big red flag. If you’re trying to check off 10 different things just to say you did “self-care,” it’s probably too much. Simplifying your routine can make it feel less overwhelming and way more effective.
Step 2: Reflect on Your Recent Experiences
Think back to the last few weeks. Have you noticed any patterns in your energy, emotions, or overall mood? Some reflection questions to consider:
- When was the last time I felt genuinely relaxed and restored?
- Do I look forward to my self-care time, or do I secretly resent it?
- Have I been using self-care as a distraction instead of a way to connect with myself?
- Do I feel pressure to do “perfect” self-care, rather than flexible, intuitive care?
Take a few minutes to journal your answers. You might uncover patterns that you’ve been too busy to notice.
Step 3: Decide on Your Next Steps
If your self-care routine isn’t sticking, don’t worry. It’s totally normal to tweak and adjust until you find what works for you. Here’s how to get started:
Figure Out What You Really Need
What’s your goal with self-care? Are you trying to relax, boost your energy, or just feel more balanced? Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s easier to pick activities that actually help. Forget the trend and choose to focus on what makes you feel good.
Keep It Simple
Self-care doesn’t have to be this long, complicated process. Sometimes the best things are the simplest like taking a short walk, having your coffee before anyone wakes up, or listening to your favorite song on repeat. Small, easy habits can have a big impact if you stick with them.
Try New Things
Don’t be afraid to mix it up! If your current routine feels stale, experiment with new ideas. Maybe you swap out journaling for painting or try a guided meditation app instead of sitting in silence.
Ready to Refresh Your Routine?
Need help figuring out why your self care routine isn’t working for you?
If your routine feels like a burden or isn’t helping, that’s okay. You can always change your routine and let go of what’s not working.
Start by simplifying things or take our quiz to discover your self-care style.
It’s packed with ideas tailored to your personality and preferences, so you can build a self care practice that actually works for you. Who knows? You might even find a new favorite activity to add to your routine.
