For subscribers
The real meaning of self-care and why it matters
It is not to be confused with consumer offerings such as spas and retreats that are ultimately temporary fixes.
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The deeper reasons many of us feel burnt out stem from the challenges of our daily lives.
ST PHOTO: GIN TAY
DeeperDive is a beta AI feature. Refer to full articles for the facts.
Of late, the curse “May you live in interesting times” feels particularly apt. Amid the chaotic upheaval of the world order – an unsteady global economy, war flaring across regions, climate volatility and other disruptions, including the personal loss of someone I held dear – I find myself gripped by angst about the future. Inexplicably, the term “self-care” surfaced in my mind.
It is something I often hear from my younger colleagues when they take time off to “refuel, recharge and reconnect”. Until recently, I would groan inwardly. I am not sure if this judgmental reaction – which comes as quick as a reflex – is typical of my generation, where the idea of prioritising one’s own needs feels self-indulgent. But now, many believe the opposite: that to truly care for the people and things we love, we must first care for ourselves. Self-care, then, is not selfishness.
