Self care or something less aware?

In recent years, there has been a significant social shift towards self-care, self -first, self-awareness, self, self, self.  While I absolutely agree that it is vital to prioritise our well-being, a strong awareness of the self and, the necessity of filling one’s own cup – it is equally important to recognise that this self-focused energy can easily be taken too far.

Are we slipping from a healthy energy self-awareness into a more destructive reality of self-centredness? Could this be adding to  an emerging human relations problem – our increasing inability to meter our impact on others. In this blog post, we will explore how the new self-care culture is unwittingly causing an adverse effect on the way we interact with and relate to one another.

THE RISE OF SELF-CENTEREDNESS:

Embracing self-care and prioritizing our own needs is undoubtedly a healthy practice. In a society that is constantly demanding our time and attention, carving out moments for ourselves to find balance and recharge has become essential. However, the notion of self-care has rapidly transformed into a self-centred culture, neglecting the importance of considering others and their well-being.  As pack-animals (or simply mammals, if you wish), we are reliant on a greater community and sense of belonging – without this the foundation, self-care is built on flimsy (I dare say, self-serving) foundations.

1.            The Erosion of Empathy:

The pursuit of self-fulfilment often leads to a diminished sense of empathy. With a laser focus on personal growth and achieving happiness, we may inadvertently overlook the needs and emotions of those around us. This erosion of empathy can hinder our ability to understand and connect with others, consequently straining our relationships.

2.            Lack of Consideration:

The self-centered mindset can result in a lack of consideration for the impact our actions have on others. While it is essential to look after ourselves, we must also recognize that our choices may affect those in our immediate vicinity. Whether it is cancelling plans last-minute or disregarding the emotional needs of others, our inability to meter the impact of our decisions creates a breakdown in human relations.

Negative Consequences:

The problem lies not in the act of self-care, but rather in how it is practiced to the detriment of others. The consequences of this excessive self-centeredness can be far-reaching, impacting both our personal and professional lives.

1.            Strained Relationships:

Our inability to consider the impact of our actions on others can strain friendships, romantic relationships, and family dynamics. When self-centeredness becomes the norm, communication and compromise suffer, leading to a breakdown in trust and understanding.

2.            Workplace Dynamics:

In the professional realm, excessive self-centeredness can hinder collaboration and teamwork. When individuals place their needs above the collective goals, it undermines the collective success of a team or organisation.

FINDING A BALANCE:

In order to find a sustainable balance of inward and outward energy, we must first come to the realisation that any self-care regime is incomplete without the creation and maintenance of solid support structures – this includes not only family, friends and lovers but too professional connections.  It is crucial that we find a balance between self-care and consideration for others. Prioritizing our well-being does not mean neglecting the feelings and needs of those around us. Here are a few steps we can take to restore equilibrium:

1.            Cultivate Empathy:

Nurturing empathy is essential to bridging the gap between self-care and consideration for others. Practicing active listening, seeking to understand others’ perspectives, and showing compassion can help us navigate relationships more effectively.

2.            Mindful Decision Making:

Before making choices, pause to consider the potential impact on those around you. Recognise that your actions have consequences and aim to find solutions that address your needs without disregarding others.

3.            Open Communication:

Communication is key in any relationship. Communicating with intention, and with your eye on impact – saying exactly what you mean, being open and honest about your needs and limitations, you can find common ground and ensure that everyone is acknowledged and tended to.

Perhaps a new trend of interdependence, empathy, mindful decision making, and re learning the power of open, yet thoughtful, communication could bring us a long way in striking a balance between self-care and our responsibilities towards others. It is through this balance that we can foster healthier and more fulfilling connections with ourselves and others.