Balancing Self-Care and Relationships: Finding What Works
Maintaining a healthy balance between self-care and relationships is a challenge many face in today’s fast-paced world. This article explores practical strategies, backed by expert insights, to help you nurture both personal well-being and meaningful connections. From scheduling self-care time to fostering open communication, discover actionable tips to create harmony in your life and relationships.
- Schedule Time for Self-Care
- Practice Daily Self-Check-Ins
- Implement a No-Questions-Asked Policy
- Balance Self-Awareness with Active Listening
Schedule Time for Self-Care
You need to make space for yourself on the calendar. Literally time-block for yourself! This could look like 15 minutes before you start your day, it could look like taking your lunch break and making that “you” time, or even scheduling time for a favorite hobby once a week. The point is to write it on the calendar and make it a priority to attend and show up for yourself.
For me, it’s going to the gym. I put my gym time on the calendar, and I don’t move it. Doctor’s appointments, dentist visits, stuff to do for work, or the kids – everything is scheduled around the time I set aside for myself.
I find that by taking care of my needs first, I am better able to be present for the people I care about. I am literally a better mom, wife, and counselor when I take that time for myself.
Kellie Brown
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Quiet Water Counseling
Practice Daily Self-Check-Ins
I recently listened to a podcast where someone shared a powerful story about balancing personal needs with being present for the people they care about. She talked about how, for a long time, she struggled to juggle her own emotions while supporting friends and family. She realized that getting too caught up in others’ problems made her lose touch with how she was really feeling, which eventually led to burnout and resentment.
What helped her turn things around was creating a simple daily ritual: a quick 5-minute check-in with herself, usually in the morning or before bed. During this time, she would pause and ask herself, “How am I feeling right now? What do I need?” Sometimes she’d jot down a few words in a journal, other times she’d just reflect quietly. This small habit helped her stay connected to her own emotional reality and feel grounded.
When she’s with others, she practices active listening, giving her full attention without rushing to fix things or let her own feelings take over. She reminded herself that being present doesn’t mean sacrificing her own well-being; it means being there while staying emotionally centered.
For her, maintaining this balance boiled down to consistent self-awareness, boundaries, and self-care. These practices supported her ability to show up fully and sustainably for the people she loves, without losing herself in the process.
Rita Zhang
Marketing Coordinator, Achievable
Implement a No-Questions-Asked Policy
This is a constant struggle. I’m in the business I am specifically because my aging father is dealing with dementia and needs extra at-home care, including from me, my mother, and my siblings. We know we always have to be there for him, but that can be hard when we’re feeling burnt out from work or the rest of our lives. None of us want to be the one who left Dad alone, and that can make it hard to ask for help. We’ve set up a “no questions asked” policy here. If you need the night off, you get it.
Wynter Johnson
CEO, Caily
Balance Self-Awareness with Active Listening
To stay connected with my own needs and feelings while supporting the people I care about, I need to be mindful. I regularly check in with myself to understand how I’m feeling and what I need to stay balanced and supported. This helps me take care of myself and give genuine support to others. When I spend time with loved ones, I focus on listening carefully and being fully present, which helps strengthen our bond. I also set clear boundaries so I don’t become overwhelmed emotionally or physically. Doing things like meditation, exercise, or quiet time helps me recharge and stay centered. Being honest about my feelings encourages trust and understanding, helping me balance taking care of myself with caring for others.
Matthew Ramirez
Founder, Rephrasely
