When was the last time you said ‘no’ to someone? And we don’t mean a playful no, or a no with an apology attached, but a real, solid, unapologetic ‘no.’

If you’re anything like most therapists — especially women in our field — that question might make you squirm a little. Because somewhere along the way, we got the message that taking care of ourselves means we’re taking something away from someone else. That it’s indulgent. Or worse — selfish.

But what if we told you that choosing yourself isn’t selfish at all — it’s actually one of the most generous things you can do for others? That’s what we hope to convince you of in this episode.

Episode Highlights:

• Self-care belief system upgrade #2: Self-care is not selfish, and is not just about treating ourselves
• Why the old view doesn't serve us: Our worth becomes equated with how much we give to others, and how little we need
• The new view: Self-care is in fact stewardship, and resource management
• Self-care experiments:
  • Say no once
  • Protect one block of time
  • Challenge your definition of selfish

Connect with Melissa & Karen at Intentional Therapist:
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmelissatiessen/

Share one of your own self-care experiments via our SpeakPipe page at: https://www.speakpipe.com/intentionaltherapist

Ready to upgrade your self-care? Check out the independent study version of our course, Thrivival Skills for Therapists, and earn 3 CE credits! Because self-care is PART OF our jobs! More info at: https://intentional-therapist.newzenler.com/courses/thrivival-skills-for-therapists-independent-study

Disclaimer: This podcast seeks to be educational in purpose and is not to be used as clinical advice. Please connect with a therapist one-on-one for personalized support.