How to Maturity Test

“Wow, you’re really mature for your age!” Sound familiar? People love to use words like “mature” and “immature” to label how mentally and emotionally wise our decisions and actions are. Wouldn’t it be great if there was a way to check in with yourself and see just how much you’ve matured, though?

We’ve got you covered. Hit “Start Quiz,” and by the end of this quiz, we’ll tell you exactly how mature you are.

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1. Do you feel like you have a good handle on your emotions most days?

1. Absolutely! I feel really in control of my emotions.
2. Mostly, but I slip up occasionally.
3. Kind of? I lose control sometimes, though.
4. Not really. I don’t feel like I’m in control of my emotions.

2. Your teacher just gave you constructive feedback on a project. How do you react?

1. I thank them and make a mental note for later.
2. I smile and nod, but I’m a tiny bit annoyed on the inside.
3. I explain how I disagree, but I don’t really push the matter.
4. I launch into an argument with them. They’re totally in the wrong!

3. You and your friend get into a pretty nasty argument. How do you patch things up?

1. I acknowledge the role I played in our argument and take accountability for my actions.
2. I offer the most genuine apology I can muster, even if I don’t fully mean it.
3. I apologize, but make it clear that they’re the one in the wrong.
4. I don’t do anything—it’s up to them to fix things.

4. How often do you ask “How are you doing?” to your friends and loved ones?

1. At least once per conversation.
2. Once every few days.
3. Once a week or so.
4. I don’t typically remember to check-in.

5. You just received a bad grade and are feeling super frustrated. How do you react?

1. I give myself time to unpack my feelings later on in a private space.
2. I feel tense about it at first, but push it to the back of my mind until later.
3. I don’t talk about it, but I’m a little bit snippy for the rest of the day.
4. It really affects my mood—all my peers can tell that I’m upset.

6. Do you feel comfortable expressing your feelings in a respectful way?

1. Yes, definitely. I can share my feelings without blaming other people.
2. Usually, yeah—I don’t have too much trouble keeping my cool.
3. Occasionally, but it doesn’t take long for me to play the blame game.
4. Nah. I tend to blame other people for how I’m feeling.

7. The new gadget you want costs 0, but you only have 0 saved up. What’s your next move?

1. I patiently save a little money over the next few months.
2. I ask my neighbors if I can do some chores for a little cash.
3. I ask my friend to loan me the rest of the money.
4. I guilt-trip my parents until they give me what I want.

8. In a given conversation, how much time do you spend talking about yourself?

1. About 50%—it’s an even split between myself and the other person.
2. Between 50 and 60%. I talk a little more than the other person.
3. Around 60-80%. I definitely dominate the conversation.
4. Over 80%. The other person might get a few sentences in.

9. How often do you set aside time for self-reflection?

1. At least once a day.
2. Once every few days, I’d say.
3. Once a week, typically.
4. No idea—it’s not really a priority for me.

10. A friend just disagreed with something you said. How do you react?

1. I ask them about their opinion. I’m so intrigued to hear their thoughts!
2. I laugh it off, though I feel slightly irked.
3. I say nothing, but stew about it long after the conversation ends.
4. I poke fun at their opinion. That’s what they get for disagreeing with me!

11. Do you like to gossip with your friends?

1. Nope. I’d be hurt if I knew someone was talking about me behind my back.
2. A little bit. It’s definitely a guilty pleasure…
3. I like to gossip, but I don’t usually initiate it.
4. Absolutely! I love to hear the latest tea.

12. Your peer wins an award that you were hoping to get. What do you do?

1. I smile and congratulate them. They earned it!
2. I give them a shout-out, but I don’t really mean it.
3. I roll my eyes. They probably became a teacher’s pet in order to win.
4. I complain to my friends about how I deserved to win.

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[Edit]All About Maturity

What is maturity?
Maturity is the ability to act both emotionally and mentally like an adult. Mature individuals aren’t just tuned into their emotions—they’re able to communicate their feelings in a healthy and respectful manner and acknowledge how other people are feeling and thinking as well.

Signs That You’re Emotionally Mature

• You can comfortably separate your emotions from your sense of self. It’s easy for you to acknowledge that your feelings are separate from your identity. For instance, you can feel sad once in a while but that doesn’t make you a “sad individual.”
  
• You can accept constructive criticism from others. You have no difficulty taking a person’s feedback in stride and recognizing it for what it is. When people give you constructive criticism, you don’t take it as a personal attack on your character.
  
• You can understand how different emotions develop within your body. Maybe you feel a sinking sensation in your gut before you feel sad, or your face gets really flushed whenever you feel angry. Whatever the case, you’re in sync with yourself and understand what your different bodily cues mean.
  
• You can communicate your own feelings in a healthy way. Instead of bottling up your feelings, you let other people know what’s on your mind in a respectful and honest manner. You’re able to do this without pinning the blame on someone else.
  
• You’re good at keeping your cool in different situations. No matter what the situation, you refuse to lash out at others as a way of coping. Instead, you can generally keep a level head in most scenarios.
  
• You take accountability for yourself. You have the grace and humility to own up for your actions in the event that your emotions do get the better of you. During your apology, you don’t blame others for your behavior.
  
• You stay tuned into other people’s needs. You’re great at identifying how other people are feeling and are good at checking in to make sure they’re okay.
  

[Edit]Want to learn more?

Want to learn more about maturity and what it means to be emotionally mature? Check out these resources:

• https://psychcentral.com/blog/signs-emotional-maturity
• https://www.michbar.org/file/barjournal/article/documents/pdf4article2954.pdf
• https://www.mindful.org/how-to-test-your-emotional-maturity/

[Edit]You Might Also Like

[Edit]References

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How to Is Taurus Compatible with Cancer

Taurus and Cancer are two signs that really seem made for each other. Taurus loves to eat and Cancer loves to cook. Cancer loves to stay at home and Taurus loves to make that home a beautiful place. But is this pair really a match made in heaven? Read on to learn everything you need to know about Taurus and Cancer compatibility, including challenges they might face along the way.

This article is based on an interview with our psychic astrologer, Stina Garbis, owner of Psychic Stina.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Taurus and Cancer Compatibility: At a Glance

1. Taurus and Cancer are so compatible that they feel like soulmates. These two are affectionate and nurturing and share many of the same values and interests. As a water sign, Cancer flows naturally into the earth sign, Taurus, to make one of the strongest matches in the zodiac. It can seem like they're made for each other.^[1]
   
   • Both signs are rather traditional and family-oriented, which makes them more likely to stay together.
   • This doesn't mean they won't have disagreements or misunderstandings from time to time. But they communicate well and are usually pretty good at resolving their problems together.

[Edit]Emotional Compatibility

1. Taurus and Cancer are very in sync emotionally. Cancer is ruled by the Moon, the planet associated with emotions. The Moon is "exalted" in Taurus—in astrology, that means basically that the Moon is happy when it's in Taurus. Likewise, a Cancerian feels happy and comfortable with a Taurus.
   
   • Taurus, remember that your Cancerian partner is sensitive. Yes, you're a Bull, but that doesn't mean you have to approach every problem like a bull in a china shop, breaking precious glass. Take a few deep breaths and calm down before approaching a Cancer with an issue.
   • Cancer, talk to your Taurus partner about issues when they first come up so you can find a solution together. You tend to bottle things up to avoid conflict, but this can cause anger and resentment.

[Edit]Sexual Compatibility

1. Cancer and Taurus take the sexual heat to another level. These two really get each other. Of course, it doesn't hurt that Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of love and sensual pleasure. Cancer loves to please their partner, and the Bull loves sensual worship. These two have emotional sex that focuses on mutual pleasure and gratification.^[2]
   
   • Taurus, spoil Cancer in the bedroom. They love to be slowly caressed or massaged. Show them that you adore every part of them.
   • Cancer, as an Earth sign, Taurus is really into the physical. Find every opportunity to appeal to their physical senses.^[3]

[Edit]Trust Compatibility

1. Taurus and Cancer find it easy to trust each other implicitly. It's easy for them to trust each other because they know their thoughts and feelings are always being taken into account. They have similar values and similar approaches to life, so they don't have to worry about conflicts there. They communicate freely and openly and would never let anything come between them.
   
   • Taurus, recognize that a Cancer can sometimes have a hard time opening up. They'll be quicker to let you in if they feel comfortable and at home with you, but it can take time. Have patience.
   • Cancer, trust your intuition about your Taurean partner. They want to provide you with a stable and strong foundation of love and support. You never have to question their loyalty to you.
   • So it's a great sign that Taurus has such a capacity for loyalty and trustworthiness!

[Edit]Communication Compatibility

1. Cancer and Taurus understand each other's silences. With most other signs, Cancer and Taurus would have difficulty communicating. But with each other, it just seems to click. Even though they may not say many words to each other, they communicate through a sort of sixth sense that they share.
   
   • Taurus, watch your tone when you're talking about an issue you have with Cancer—they're sensitive and you can hurt them without meaning to. You might also be too stubborn at times, so learn to let go of an issue if it's only causing conflict.^[4]
   • Cancer, forgive Taurus if they do something to upset you. Holding onto a grudge can lead to resentment. You also want to bring up problems when they bother you rather than holding them inside to avoid a potential conflict.

[Edit]Shared Values

1. Cancer and Taurus value the same things in life and love. It's hard to find a more harmonious pairing than Cancer and Taurus. The Bull is steady and secure, which Cancer craves. The Crab is nurturing and family-oriented, which fits Taurus like a glove. Expect them to have similar goals in life and to support each other in achieving them.^[5]
   
   • Taurus, Cancer is going to be far more focused on emotions than you are. Let them take the lead when it comes to nurturing—whether pets or kids—to build a happy and well-adjusted home.
   • Cancer, your Taurean partner is going to be more focused on financial security than you are. After all, Venus, the ruling planet of Taurus, also governs money. Let them handle the finances as much as possible and you'll have a more peaceful relationship.

[Edit]Shared Interests and Activities

1. Both signs love to build a beautiful home and family together. These two would be perfectly happy sitting at home every night eating a home-cooked meal and watching a little TV before turning in. They're both homebodies, but it still does them good to go out from time to time and see the world.
   
   • Taurus, as a Fixed sign, you like routine and aren't so great at making changes.^[6] Let your Cancerian partner push you to try new things and expand your horizons so your relationship doesn't get stale.
   • Cancer, as a Cardinal sign, you're good at initiating things. Use this power to push the two of you to do new things as a couple so you don't stagnate.

[Edit]Compatibility Charts

Sample Taurus and Cancer Compatibility Chart

Sample Taurus and Cancer Compatibility Chart

Sample Taurus Compatibility Chart

Sample Taurus Compatibility Chart

Sample Cancer Compatibility Chart

Sample Cancer Compatibility Chart

[Edit]Video

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.elle.com/horoscopes/love/a2231/taurus-compatibility/
2. ↑ https://www.horoscope.com/love/compatibility/taurus-cancer
3. ↑ [v162041_b01]. 10 December 2021.
4. ↑ [v162041_b01]. 10 December 2021.
5. ↑ https://www.instyle.com/lifestyle/astrology/cancer-compatibility
6. ↑ [v162041_b01]. 10 December 2021.

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How to Deep Things to Say to Your Boyfriend over Text

Make your boyfriend smile by sending him one of these sweet text messages

Whether you spend every day with your boyfriend or are in a long-distance relationship, there are some things you can’t express verbally. Texting is a great way to show your boyfriend how much he means to you and make him feel like the most special guy in the world. If you’re at a loss for words, keep reading: we’ve compiled a list of deep, romantic texts to send your boyfriend to let him know how much you care.

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• Let him know you’re thankful for everything he’s done for you and for the love you share.
• Show him you’re in this relationship for the long haul by referencing your future together.^[1]
• Convey how much you admire him and let him know you’re your best self around him.^[2]

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]“You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

1. "I’m so thankful for everything you’ve given me. Your kindness, your creativity, your love—I wouldn’t trade these things for anything.”
   

[Edit]“I love the thought of growing old with you.”

1. “I want to spend the rest of my life by your side. I dream of us as grandparents, sitting on the front porch in rocking chairs, and we’re still crazy in love. Babe, I’m in this relationship for the long haul. For better or for worse, ‘til death do us part, come what may.”

[Edit]“I’ve found my person, at last. It’s you.”

1. “You’re my soulmate, the one I've been looking for my whole life. My stomach does flip-flops when I look at you across the room and realize—you’re my person. The love I’ve spent so long waiting for has finally arrived.”^[3]

[Edit]“I didn’t know it was possible to love someone this much.”

1. “I’ve never experienced love like this before. Our romance is a new adventure, one I wasn’t prepared for and one I wouldn’t give up for anything.”

[Edit]“Life didn’t make sense until I met you.”

1. “I didn’t know what love really was. I was purposeless, unmoored, and then I met you! Life has meaning now, and hope, and love.”
   

[Edit]“I can’t believe how lucky I am to have found you.”

1. “What did I do to deserve your love? I never felt like I was good enough for anything or anyone, but then the universe gave me you.”

[Edit]“I wish I could hold you in my arms and never let go.”

1. “I feel so safe when we’re together. Sometimes I think if I can’t hug or kiss you, I’ll die. But when we touch, I feel calm, like everything will be OK.”^[4]

[Edit]“I can tell you anything.”

1. “I’ve never trusted anyone as much as I trust you. I can share my darkest secrets, the most secretive parts of me, and you’ll understand. You have no idea how much I value the freedom to just…be myself.”

[Edit]“Words can’t express the love I feel for you.”

1. “Text is inadequate, but it’s all I’ve got to tell you how much I adore you. Our love is that magical sort of love that can’t be fully explained using words. But I’ll never stop trying to express my love to you anyway.”

[Edit]“I can’t wait to make even more memories with you.”

1. “I cherish the time we’ve spent together. I never want to have another memory without you in it. The times I’ve spent with you have been the happiest of my life.”
   

[Edit]“I love the way you love me.”

1. “You treat me better than any guy has ever treated me. You know just what to say and just what to do to make me fall in love with you over and over again. I love you, and I see and appreciate everything you do for me.”

[Edit]“I’m so comfortable with you.”

1. “I’ve never felt so at home in a relationship before. Being with you just feels…natural. Like the way love’s meant to feel. A warm fireplace, a soft blanket.”

[Edit]“I can’t imagine my life without you in it.”

1. “I could never go back to a time before I knew you. It feels like you’ve always been a part of my life, somehow. We’ve always been meant for each other.”

[Edit]“Everything you do makes me fall more in love with you.”

1. “Even the little things you do make my heart swell with love. Whether you’re brushing your teeth or furrowing your brow over a book, I adore you, all the time, no matter what you’re doing.”

[Edit]“You still give me butterflies, even after all this time.”

1. “Our honeymoon phase will never end. We’ve been together for a long time now, but it still feels like the very first date. My heart beats fast whenever you look in my direction. I adore you.”^[5]
   

[Edit]“You make me a better person.”

1. “I’m my best self when I’m with you. I feel entirely unworthy of your love, and yet I feel like a better person around you. You make me want to be kinder to everyone, more loving, more generous. Just like you.”

[Edit]“You’re my lover and my best friend.”

1. “We’ve got the best of both worlds: friendship and romance.{endbold} You’re my confidant, my partner in crime, the person I go to for help and to share my day with. You’re also the apple of my eye, my one true love. I never knew I could find such amazing friendship and romance in the same person.”

[Edit]“You are the most important person in my life, now and always.”

1. “You are my number-one priority. I’ll drop anything to be with you, my love, and I’ll do anything for you. Nothing comes before you.”

[Edit]“What’s your love language?”

1. “I want to know how to love you best, because you deserve the best. Do you like to receive gifts, physical touch, or words of affirmation? Or maybe quality time, or acts of service?”^[6]

[Edit]“You’re my favorite person to do everything with.”

1. “Nobody else compares. We laugh together nonstop, and I know you always have my back in any situation, for better or worse. You’re my travel buddy and the person I run everyday errands with. No matter the circumstances, you bring my life fun and excitement and meaning.”
   

[Edit]“There is no one more perfect for me than you.”

1. “We’re a match made in heaven. Romeo and Juliet weren’t more in sync than we are. The universe designed you for me and me for you, and now it’s finally brought us together.”

[Edit]“I’ve realized that I think about you more than anything else.”

1. “You’re in my every thought. I lose focus of my work, I trail off mid-sentence in conversations. Even the most fun moments of my day are interrupted by thoughts of you, what you’re doing, how you’re feeling, and when I’ll see you again.”

[Edit]“You’ve made me see the world in a whole new way.”

1. “I value your perspective so much. Your view of the world has completely changed how I approach my day-to-day reality. I see life in so much more color than I used to.”

[Edit]“I miss you when you aren’t with me.”

1. “Any day you’re not with me is a bad day. I could be having the time of my life, but it would feel as if I’m missing a limb. You’re my lost arm, my phantom leg. Be by my side.”
   

[Edit]Tips

• Keep all your communication from a place of love as you share your thoughts, feelings, and needs with your boyfriend.^[7]

[Edit]Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about dating, check out our in-depth with [v161025_b01].

[Edit]References

1. ↑ [v161147_b01]. 5 November 2019.
2. ↑ [v161147_b01]. 5 November 2019.
3. ↑ https://thinkaloud.net/deep-things-to-say-to-your-boyfriend/
4. ↑ https://parade.com/1219460/marynliles/romantic-things-to-say/
5. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/a29831520/cute-things-to-say-to-your-boyfriend/
6. ↑ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/115-interesting-questions-to-ask-your-crush-irl-or-over-text
7. ↑ [v161025_b01]. 20 January 2023.

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How to Practice Self Care

Self-care activities can help you cope with stress and improve overall well-being. Practicing self-care is especially important if you have many responsibilities, like going to school, working at a stressful job, or taking care of a loved one. A good deal of practicing self care is learning how to understand your own needs emotionally, physically, and professionally. If you can understand your needs and learn to put yourself first sometimes, you'll be able to better take care of yourself and your other responsibilities.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Practicing Emotional Self-Care

1. Manage stress. Make attempts to manage and reduce stress in your life. Sources of stress might include having a lot to do with work, school, or taking care of someone else. Identify what you have control over, which is usually just your reaction to the stress.^[1] Practicing relaxation techniques will increase energy, motivation, and productivity. Some simple techniques to reduce stress include:
   
   ^[2]
   • Taking 5-30 minutes every morning for meditation or morning pages.
   • Using imagery by finding a quiet spot, closing your eyes, and using all of your senses to imagine a deeply relaxing and peaceful scene. Imagine a space that's meaningful and calming for you.
   • Trying progressive muscle relaxation, where you alternatively tense and relax the muscles throughout your body.
   • Practicing deep breathing.^[3]
   • Trying tai-chi or yoga.
   • Keeping a journal.
   • Taking a hot bath or shower.
2. Surround yourself with supportive people. Spend time with friends, family, and others who make you feel good about yourself. Choose people who respect your needs and boundaries. Make sure the people you spend time with are considerate, reliable, and supportive of your goals. Avoid people who drain you, belittle you, or stress you out.^[4]
   
3. Make time for fun. It's important to make time for fun and leisure, especially when you're stressed. Remember to engage in a variety of things for fun and involve other people. Try one of these ideas:
   
   • Have a date night once a week with your spouse or with your friends.^[5]
   • Re-read a favorite book.
   • Watch a favorite movie.
   • Find a hobby to enjoy.
   • Listen to peaceful music.
   • Buy an adult coloring book.
4. Consider counseling. Know when you're feeling overwhelmed and don't be afraid to seek professional help. Needing to talk to somebody doesn't make you broken, it makes you human. Put effort into finding somebody you can trust and connect with. If you're not able to form a relationship with your therapist, the arrangement won't be beneficial. Counseling is beneficial to self-care because it:
   
   ^[6]
   • Gives you a safe place to talk and process.
   • Helps you deal better with daily stressors and worries.
   • Allows you to get an objective opinion.
   • Encourages you to live a better life.
5. Give yourself affirmations.^[7] Encourage and validate yourself by saying something affirming to yourself. Pick a phrase or saying that's positive, personal, powerful, and precise. Some examples you can try:^[8]
   
   • “I can do this.”
   • “I believe in myself.”
   • “I love and accept myself.”
   • “I am doing my best.”
   • “This too shall pass.”

[Edit]Practicing Physical Self-Care

1. Exercise regularly. Moving around does so many great things for you and can be done in the comfort of your own home! Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, even if it's just in 10-minute intervals. It's okay if you can't exercise every single day, just aim for most days of the week. Choose activities that are fun and interesting for you. Try to do a variety of different activities to keep things interesting. You can:^[9]
   
   • Take the dog for a walk.
   • Dance in your house.
   • Do yard work.
   • Join an exercise class at a local gym.
   • Stretch or do yoga.
2. Eat healthy foods.^[10] Eating healthy foods will help keep you energized and your body healthy. When you're busy working or taking care of others, it can be difficult to plan and cook a healthy meal for yourself. Eventually though, the easy foods you tend to grab are going to drain you and leave you feeling unhealthy. Some ways to modify your diet a little to better take care of yourself:
   
   • Eat whole grains.
   • Eat more dark green vegetables.
   • Eat a variety of fresh or frozen fruit.
   • Choose low-fat or fat-free dairy products.
   • Try a variety of lean proteins.
   • Eat regular meals and snacks.
3. Get adequate sleep. Make sure you're getting enough sleep each night. Most people need about 7-9 hours to feel at their best the next day. It can be difficult to take care of your sleep schedule when your stressed, overworked, busy with work or school, or caring for a sick loved one. Try to:
   
   • Set a goal of when you want your bedtime to be and try to stick to it.
   • Make sure your bedroom is free of distractions, such as the television.
   • Get a sleep and exercise tracker, such as a FitBit, that tracks the quality of your sleep.
   • Make your bedroom a peaceful place, with clean linens, comfortable bedding, and soft lighting.
4. Monitor your physical health. Another practice of good physical self-care is ensuring you monitor your physical health. When you're sick, take time off work or school. Schedule regular appointments with your doctor. Make sure you're taking any prescriptions consistently and accurately.^[11]
   
   • Take time to appreciate every amazing thing your body does. Remember that your body is working to keep you alive, so take care of it well. Pay attention to body sensations and notice spots of attention.
5. Take a vacation. Schedule time-off from your responsibilities. Vacations don't necessarily have to be yearly trips to the beach, as those can be stressful and expensive. Vacations can be mini-breaks that you take from stress throughout the week or month. For example, schedule time off just for quiet and relaxation for half an hour every day. Find places inside or outside your home that are comforting to you.
   
   • If you are able to take a trip away from home, plan your vacation so that it's not more work and stress for you. Don't schedule too many activities and over-extend yourself.
6. Make time for intimacy. Physical touch is comforting, reassuring, and stress reducing. Hug a friend. Cuddle or hold hands with your partner. Don't neglect your sex life.^[12]
   

[Edit]Practicing Professional Self-Care

1. Schedule regular breaks. Make sure you take breaks to get up, walk around, and clear your thoughts at work when you're stressed. Don't work through your lunch break. Consider getting up to stretch or talk to coworkers to re-energize yourself. Also take regular breaks to get water.^[13]
   
2. Make your workplace comfortable. Try to create a workspace that makes you feel calm, capable, and motivated. This will reduce your stress load and help you feel more productive at work. You can:^[14]
   
   • Buy plants for your office or cubicle.
   • Declutter your desk.
   • Make sure your chair is comfortable and adjusted well.
   • Wear noise-canceling headphones to give yourself some quiet while working.
   • Sit near a window for natural light, which is better than fluorescent lighting.
3. Know when to negotiate. To better enjoy your job and reduce your stress load, know when to negotiate and when to ask for help. This will allow you to feel more empowered and less alone at work. Don't be afraid to advocate for yourself for a raise or promotion. Don't be afraid to ask for help from colleagues, superiors, or clients. Seek out opportunities for supervision, consultation, or training.^[15]
   
4. Don't take work home with you. In order to keep better work-life balance and reduce stress, try to avoid taking any work home with you. This means avoiding taking physical work home, as well as avoiding thinking about work while you're at home.
   
   • If you work from home, schedule specified times for work-related tasks and don't let them interfere with home tasks. For example, after 5 p.m. make sure you stop checking emails or answering calls for work, even though you may technically be available. Keep a work space at home that's separate from your other spaces.^[16]

[Edit]Improving Your Approach to Self-Care

1. Put your own needs first. It's not selfish to put your own needs first. In fact, you'll be better able to help others when you've been focusing on your own health, both mentally and physically.
   
2. Ask for help when you need it. It can be difficult to ask for or accept help when you need it. Putting up a “tough” front when you're stressed and feeling like you have to take care of everything will only drag you down. Let your friends and family help you.^[17] It can be easier to ask for help if you:^[18]
   
   • Make a list of things you need help with.
   • Avoid weakening your requests, instead be specific.
   • Consider the other person's abilities and interests when asking for help.
3. Say “no” and set limits with others. Make sure you're not always the one helping everyone else out. You're only human and you can't do it all. Practice saying “no” to more responsibilities and saying “yes” to more opportunities for fun and connection with others.^[19]
   
   • Keep in mind not to apologize when you have to say “no.” Often times we place far too much stress on ourselves. You don't have to apologize for refusing to take on anything too overwhelming that will compromise your own well being.
4. Practice time management. Time management skills are essential to keep you less stressed and more productive. It's important to balance the demands in various areas of your life in order to better care for yourself.^[20]
   
   • Make to-do lists.
   • Schedule professional and personal activities using a calendar.
   • Set precise, realistic, and small goals.
   • Stop procrastinating.
   • Create a morning ritual and stick to it.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Keep a gratitude journal. It's scientifically proven that being grateful for ten things everyday makes you happy, along with other benefits.
• You may feel guilty about practicing self-care. Try to let it go! It's essential that you think of your own needs in order to feel happy and fulfilled.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Improve Your Self Esteem
• Be Self Reliant
• Be Confident

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.caregiver.org/taking-care-you-self-care-family-caregivers
2. ↑ https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/content/dam/socialwork/home/self-care-kit/exercises/effective-methods-for-relaxation.pdf
3. ↑ [v161447_b01]. 19 June 2020.
4. ↑ https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/resources/self-care-starter-kit/additional-self-care-resources/developing-your-support-system.html
5. ↑ http://www.lanekids.org/self-care-for-parents/
6. ↑ http://highschool.latimes.com/hs-insider/five-common-myths-about-counseling/
7. ↑ [v161447_b01]. 19 June 2020.
8. ↑ https://uwf.edu/academic-engagement-and-student-affairs/departments/counseling-and-psychological-services/self-help-library/self-help-topics/self-esteem/#d.en.204218
9. ↑ https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/content/dam/socialwork/home/self-care-kit/exercises/tips-for-increasing-physical-activity.pdf
10. ↑ [v161447_b01]. 19 June 2020.
11. ↑ https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/content/dam/socialwork/home/self-care-kit/self-care-assessment.pdf
12. ↑ http://www.lanekids.org/self-care-for-parents/
13. ↑ https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/content/dam/socialwork/home/self-care-kit/self-care-assessment.pdf
14. ↑ https://hbr.org/2012/01/how-to-make-a-bad-workspace-wo
15. ↑ https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/content/dam/socialwork/home/self-care-kit/self-care-assessment.pdf
16. ↑ https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/217996
17. ↑ https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/resources/self-care-starter-kit/additional-self-care-resources/developing-your-support-system.html
18. ↑ https://www.caregiver.org/taking-care-you-self-care-family-caregivers
19. ↑ [v161447_b01]. 19 June 2020.
20. ↑ https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/content/dam/socialwork/home/self-care-kit/exercises/time-management.pdf

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