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June 18, 2025
Making Time for Yourself isn’t Selfish—It’s Essential
In our busy work and personal lives, it can be challenging to find time for ourselves. And when we do have a few minutes of alone time, we often feel guilty or selfish for taking a break, treating ourselves to something nice or prioritizing our own needs.
But here’s the truth: taking care of yourself is not selfish. Self-care is an investment in your health, peace of mind and ability to show up as your best self for your family, your job and yourself.
Here are a few steps for beginning a self-care routine:
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Reframe Your Thinking
Remember that self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s essential to your overall well-being, both physically and mentally. When you’re depleted, you’re not able to give your best to anyone else. Taking care of you is taking care of your family.
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Set Boundaries
It’s okay to say “no.” If you’re overwhelmed and another commitment comes up, prioritize your needs. Clearly and respectfully communicate your limits. Boundaries are not walls; they’re filters for what you will and won’t allow into your space and energy.
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Start Small
Self-care doesn’t have to be hours long or cost anything. A 5-minute meditation, a 10-minute walk or 30 minutes of reading your favorite book can do wonders. Be intentional. Set aside that time and protect it; consistency matters more than duration.
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Explore Different Forms of Self-Care
Self-care is more than bubble baths (although those can be great, too). Focus on different areas of your well-being:
- Physical – movement, sleep, nutrition
- Mental/Emotional – journaling, therapy, venting to a friend
- Psychological – setting goals, saying “no,” feeling productive
- Spiritual – prayer, meditation, time in nature, gratitude practices
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Use Available Relaxation Tools
There are many relaxation and wellness programs and apps that promote self-care through meditation, muscle relaxation and breathing exercises. Dedicate time to using resources that boost your well-being.
You are worth the effort. Reducing stress and enhancing your well-being benefit not only you, but also those around you. Find the people, tools and activities that bring you joy, and lean into them. You’re not just doing this for yourself—you’re doing it so you can be the best version of yourself for the people who need you most.
Self-care is not indulgence. It’s resilience.
This Week's Recipe from the American Heart Association
Teriyaki Salmon with Cauliflower RiceMore from Catherine
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June 18, 2025
Making Time for Yourself isn’t Selfish—It’s Essential
In our busy work and personal lives, it can be challenging to find time for ourselves. And when we do have a few minutes of alone time, we often feel guilty or selfish for taking a break, treating ourselves to …
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May 14, 2025
Create an Environment That Supports Mental Health
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the many factors that contribute to our emotional well-being. One area we often overlook in our mental health journey is our immediate environment—the spaces we inhabit and the people …
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April 2, 2025
Buying Organic: Is It Worth the Hype?
Go to any grocery store, and you’ll see organic products on the shelves and specific sections dedicated to organic produce. These foods are often expensive, raising the question of whether they’re worth the higher price tag. Let’s take a look …
Kinetiq Health Wellbeing Webinar | What You Need to Know About LTD and STD
Authored By
Catherine Kirkhoff, CHES, CLS
Vice President, Kinetiq Health
As Vice President of Kinetiq Health, Catherine Kirkhoff leads the Kinetiq health clinical teams and collaborates closely with wellness vendors to help clients implement, manage, and measure impactful health and wellness initiatives. She oversees the successful onboarding of new clients and manages the day-to-day operations of a dynamic team of analysts and clinicians; all focused on driving strategic health solutions tailored to client needs.
With over a decade of experience in the health and wellness space, Catherine brings a strong background in public health and a deep understanding of cost-containment strategies for employers and their benefit plans. Her approach combines analytical attention with human-centered care, helping organizations achieve better outcomes for both their employees and bottom lines.
Catherine resides in Indianapolis with her husband, three children, a dog, and a cat. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends—especially at their family lake house. A passionate home cook and audiobook enthusiast, you can often find her on a walk with her family, gardening, relaxing with a Netflix series, or diving into her next favorite listen.