The Significance of Self-care

By Calvin Ecker, Millvale Service Coordinator

What makes me great at helping others is that I prioritize taking care of myself. It's essential to look after your own well-being. As the saying goes, you can't pour from an empty cup.

Being a service coordinator can be stressful. I must stay organized and on top of my calls, appointments and paperwork. I also must be a grounding and resourceful force when clients come in for appointments. How do I do it? 

One of the most important lessons I've learned as a social worker is the significance of self-care. I do not necessarily mean going home, putting on a face mask and laying cucumbers on my eyes. I mean participating in activities and utilizing techniques that reenergize me so that I can put my best version of myself out into the world.  

For me, this means spending time outside, making art, hanging out with friends or even just sitting on the couch watching my favorite shows. For others, this could mean playing an instrument, going to yoga classes or hanging out with your pet cats. Whatever it is, finding the activities that recharge you after a long day at work is so important. If I did not make time for self-care, I would not be able to be a person who helps people.  

If you have not thought very much about self-care before, I would encourage you to remember these things: 

• You do not need to spend money. Self-care does not have to be expensive or costly; you could go on walks around your neighborhood! 

• You can spend time with friends and family. Self-care does not have to happen all alone; you can make plans with your friends and family! 

• It looks different for everyone. Self-care is what you make it, the most important part is that you are engaging in activities and techniques that reenergize you. That way, you can continue to show up as your best self when you are out in the world.