I have to admit, living in this social media world it’s easy to fall into a rut or hit your “I’m over it” wall, which is what I’ve been feeling lately. Don’t get me wrong, I love everything about my job and this lifestyle, cliche as it sounds, it is truly my dream job. Finding a balance is something I’ve been working on these past few months. I’ve slowly taken a step back to really evaluate what works, what doesn’t, what’s worth sharing and what’s better experienced in private. Most of you have noticed, I’ve been MIA on Snapchat and my social game in general. As much as I love having a daily interaction with my readers I’ve also learned it’s time consuming, at times disingenuous and overall distracting from enjoying my everyday life.
The truth is –
I want to be present and I want to be selfish- for me.
I mean, let’s be real, I’m still a hot mess.. I’m just living that reality in real motion and not as much through my iPhone. Maybe I will be back on the train soon but for now, it feels good to create some distance for myself.
I wanted to share a few ways I’ve decided to be selfish for me, because why the eff not!!
1. I’m a big believer in doing one thing everyday for yourself – this doesn’t have to be anything big or extravagant but something you choose for yourself. It can be a simple stop to Starbucks to spend that $5 on that yummy coffee you don’t really need bc you have coffee at home but you know what, if thats what you want, you should do it for yourself. Or even sitting in your car for an 10 extra mins before you walk into the house from work and listen to a hand full of your favorite songs, by yourself but for yourself. Whatever it is, do it for you, everyday.
2. Take a Trip – insert eye roll for most of you here because I know what you are thinking, yea sure easy for you to say being a blogger who has the freedom and the free ride from sponsorships, right?! I totally get it, but the best trip in my world is less about the fancy fluff and fine wine (ok, maybe I like the fine wine) but more of the intent for the escape. Feeling like you had an overwhelming week and you just need to get away, GO! Jump in the car and drive…even if it’s the next few towns over. Find something new, unfamiliar, anything to shake off the monotony. I love walking around small towns I’ve never been to before. Grabbing coffee from the local spot, window shopping, sitting on a bench and just people watching in an unfamiliar place- it’s refreshing.
3. Go to a concert– this is because I think know I love music more than actual words. I surround myself with music all day/everyday. I have a variety of different playlist for different moods and it genuinely makes me so happy. Being able to see some of my favorite bands in person plus check out new artist is one of my favorite things to do. I’m obsessed with the app Bandsintown, it matches your playlist to upcoming shows in your area. The small venues are the best and you can get tickets for so cheap. So fun to have something to look forward to and break up your work week. I just booked four shows in the next few months, I can’t wait! A few of my favorite songs, you may also love:
Something Just Like This- The Chainsmokers & Coldplay
4. Light a candle – I’m 110% one of those candle snobs, it’s so bad but it also makes me so happy. I burn a candle at all times when I’m home, it’s my sense of calm and fuels my addiction to the sweet scent. Over the years my taste in candles have gotten a little boujee I have to admit, but I don’t really splurge on many things. So you better believe I need to have that Capri Blue Volcano candle from Anthropologie in every size. Because I’m selfish, and I want to be- for me.
My favorite boujee candles:
5. Watch a Sunset – “What’s your favorite color?” he asked. “Sunset.” she replied. This is so me. The best part is, it’s free and it happens everyday. Pretty sure there is nothing in this world a sunset, a good playlist and some wine can’t get you through. All you have to do is find the time, even if it’s once a month.
6. Change up your space – I actually enjoy being a homebody, especially in a space I love. Adding a new pillow, throw blanket even a new coffee table book makes coming home more enjoyable. Who ever came up with the idea for HomeGoods is effin brilliant, you better believe I walk up and down every aisle for those hidden gems.
My new Spring favorites for the home:
7. Find a Release – This is SO clutch my friends. I struggle with this one because I have always bottled things up inside while maintaining a big smile for the world- that is, until you break. Life is hard, period. Everyone is in different places in life and has their own struggles, whether or not you know about them, they exist- we are all human. Learning to find a healthy release is major. Running is helpful for me, I don’t really enjoy working out much but when I think of it more of a stress reliever/clear your mind activity, I love everything about it. Last week I was having an off day and I just felt like I needed something, wasn’t sure what that was but knew I couldn’t shake it off alone. I ended up google local yoga studios and I stumbled across this mediation class. I have never taken a mediation class and I had no clue what to expect, but I knew opening myself up to a new experience was what I needed in that moment. It’s funny because when I tell my friends or family I went to this type of class they look at me funny and instantly crack a joke- like you, mediating…that’s funny. But sometimes you need to do stuff for you, outside of what everyone see’s of you or what box you put yourself in. I actually really enjoyed this class, it pushed me out of my comfort zone and to me that’s growth. Grow through what you go through
It’s amazing when you take away the noise in your head the answers you are seeking are there. No outside opinions needed. The best way to be selfish- for you.
Follow my Pinterest board for my favorite inspirational quotes, here!
8. Give it all away – Not literally. More like, what you put out, you get back. Be kind, be genuine, share your love. Even if you feel like you don’t have any love to give, give it all away. Hold the door for someone, compliant a stranger, hug your husband (like really hug them), call a relative on your way home from work because you know it will make their day. As much as this is all about being selfish, I do believe you receive the energy you put out. In order for you to have that balance in your life it’s important not to neglect the people you love the most in the meantime.
I would love to hear what you do to be selfish?! Thanks for letting me share this with you guys, love you all!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
And there’s nothing wrong in being selfish for your own needs. Everyone needs a break and everyone deserves the best.
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Sarah says
Being a candle snob is no bad thing 🙂
http://www.indigoandmouse.com
Ewa Macherowska says
Nice post dear 🙂
http://www.evdaily.blogspot.com
Bry Jaimea says
Sunsets and dusk are my favourite time of day! Beautiful list and I am all for being selfish every now and then – it all part of self love, after all!
Rachel says
Haha I love that you fully admit being a candle ‘snob’ and that THOSE particular candles are boujee — because they totally are! I have to admit I have them all and it’s totally Instagram’s fault!
McKenna says
Yes girl, candle snob all the way!! Glad I’m not alone on this one!
Jordyn says
McKenna this was seriously one of my favorite posts you’ve written. Even though blogging is your full time job you fully deserve to reserve time just for you. These are all wonderful tips for self care-I personally enjoy unplugging for a bit too (and running) (and traveling)!
McKenna says
Jordyn you are so sweet, thank you for the positive feedback girl!!
Tiffany McGoff says
By Far my favorite post you have ever written! Thank you! See, you went to find yourself and by doing so helped others, inspired others and that is LOVE. you made my day! xoxo
Bella says
This is such a wonderful post, so well written. I loved learning a little more about ya!
Alix Maza says
That Chainsmokers and Coldplay song is my jam!
Alix | http://www.apintsizedlifeblog.com
Gingypooh says
❤️
Anna says
These are all great, Mckenna! We deserve to be selfish sometimes and do good things for ourselves!
-Anna | http://www.fivefootandfabulous.com
Nicole says
I love this! What a form of self-care. We all need those little moments everyday to just be present within ourselves.
Ashley Mason says
I love this! It’s so important to practice self-care. I love that you went to a meditation class – that’s something I’ve been thinking about doing, but I’m so bad at meditating! Hot yoga may be more suitable for me.
McKenna says
Hot yoga is my jam too! But you should def try a meditation class you may surprise yourself! Thanks for your comment, much appreciated!
Rachel Ritlop says
Honestly, this is my favorite post of yours ever! Seriously, I think selfish has gotten a bad rep over the years but it’s so important, especially for us women and bloggers, who give so much to others all the time!
McKenna says
I couldn’t agree more girl, thanks for your sweet words!! Xoxo
the sofieyah diaries says
Definitely good reasons to be selfish!
http://thesofieyahdiaries.com/lifestyle/beauty-and-the-beast-review
Annaliese says
One of my favorite posts of yours! I love each and every one of these. I’ve missed your hilarious Snapchats lately but so glad you’re taking some time for you!! So important! Sending love! <3
xoxo A
http://www.southernbelleintraining.com
McKenna says
Thanks girl! I miss my Snapchat fam, hope to back in the game again soon!! Xoxo
Chelsea says
McKenna, I needed this post. Gah. THIS is why you are my fave blogger!! I’m SO with you on every point you made, it’s crazy. I, too, feel like I’m stuck in a rut. I always get antsy around March just bc I live in Wisconsin and by now we are pretty flippin sick of a 6 month winter but yes, feeling very burnt out and over it! I miss you on snapchat but completely understand and can resonate. Thanks for lifting me up when I was feeling done. Don’t worry about us…take care of yourself!
Xo,
Chelsea
InspirationIndulgence.com
McKenna says
You are magic! Thank you for your sweet words, means so much to me seriously! I’m glad to hear this has been heavy on everyones hearts lately. Wishing for warm sunny days in your future babe! Thanks for your love! Xoxo
Silvia says
I love this! I love how open you were in this post. You are one of reason I started blogging because I love your style and were just so inspirational. I’m glad to see that it’s normal to be selfish from time to time because the word has such a bad connotation but it isn’t bad in every instance. Taking a trip is definitely one of the best things you can do I definitely agree with you!
Kait says
I absolutely love this post. I’ve been having to make some decisions for my own well benefit and felt guilty, but my hubby has been super supportive which helps
Natalie Redman says
Love lighting me some candles! So relaxing.
Ashley Diana says
This was such a great post Mckenna! Love the idea of doing 1 thing a day for myself- 100% going to start doing that! Attaching some of your favourite pieces is so useful! Thanks! x