Thriving Beyond Just Surviving
“We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” - Maya Angelou.

Caring for our bodies is crucial if we want them to perform at their best. Our physical health is closely linked to our mental well-being—when we nurture our bodies, our thoughts and emotions improve as well. Social connections are an important part of self-care, yet it is easy to overlook relationships when life gets busy. Equally important is mental self-care, which includes activities that engage the mind and cultivate a healthy mindset through self-compassion and acceptance.
A Wake-Up Call: Transforming Approach to Self-Care
Like many others, I once thought I was practicing self-care by focusing on fitness and staying on top of professional requirements in the military. I knew how to maintain physical fitness, meet weight standards, and manage medical checkups. However, my stress levels were high, my diet was poor, and I rarely spent time outdoors except during my commute. I didn’t notice how everything affected me, but my family did. I was not laughing, smiling, or finding joy like I used to.
While I had achieved my professional goals, I was neglecting my personal well-being. After 27 years, when I retired from the military, it presented a new challenge: redefining my identity and goals, including incorporating self-care. This seemed simple at first but proved to be one of the hardest challenges I had ever faced—it was about taking care of myself on a deeper level.
The Power of Movement: Finding Balance Through Fitness
I decided to find fitness activities that I enjoyed (vs. having to do) and signed up for a 5K, although it was a new experience, moving my body and being outdoors felt like nourishment for my soul. Creating a goal of completing a 5K (at a minimum) monthly with friends, wearing different theme outfits and tutus, beating personal records, and pushing myself not only strengthened my body but also brought joy and fulfillment. Additionally, I added Pilates to my routine, which helped me feel balanced both physically and mentally. As my focus on fitness grew, healthier eating started to follow.
Building Resilience: The Journey to Emotional Well-Being
I also knew I needed to focus on my mental health and emotional self-care. After leaving the military, I started a job I initially loved. However, over time, blurred boundaries and the presence of a toxic leader drained my passion and took a toll on my mental well-being. After heartfelt discussions with my family, we agreed that stepping away from this job was the best decision. It was then that I decided to return to school to pursue my MBA. This new challenge stimulated me mentally, sharpened my skills, and maintained a healthy inner dialogue, which contributed to my growth as a leader. After I graduated, I continued to seek out development opportunities, such as courses, certifications, seminars, and professional groups.
I was fortunate to join a company that supported my ongoing desire for growth, encouraged creativity, and valued work-life balance. Embracing self-care has allowed me to contribute more meaningfully—not by working longer hours but by bringing fresh ideas and solutions to the table.
Prioritize You: Unleash Your Best Self
Self-care is not a luxury; it is the foundation for everything else. When you prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, you are more likely to reduce anxiety, depression, stress, and burnout. You will also boost your resilience, happiness, and energy while strengthening your relationships. By taking care of yourself, you can show up as the best version of you—not just for others, but for your own growth and fulfillment.
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