The “self” in self-care gives the whole word a bitter sound, because you know what also starts with self? Selfish. Self-centered. Self-serving. When thinking about Action for Happiness’ Self-Care September, think instead of that other word with self in it: selfless. We self care in order to give selfless service:

“You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

Personally, I think “personal therapy” when I see the word “self-care.” Because that’s what it is; it’s a type of therapy that keeps you cleaned out and running smoothly. I run everyday not because everybody’s doing or even because I love it (which I do), but because it’s my therapy. That’s my self-care right there. I do other things that keep my cup full:

• Pray
• Read the scriptures
• Read
• Write for fun
• Play the piano

I’m not one of those girls who pampers herself with facials and massages and other stuff, but if that’s you, then schedule a regular time to get it done. Use this self-care as personal therapy time.

Self-care isn’t just about pampering yourself, though, or going on cleansing runs; it’s about loving yourself. It’s about being as kind to yourself as you are to others. It’s about having high expectations, but not letting inevitable failures drag you down into depression and self-flagellation. It’s about being happy with who you are.

Choose Joy.

—A