Let’s explore the subtleties of the different buzzwords being bandied about.

• Self-Focus: the direction of conscious attention on oneself and one's thoughts, needs, desires, and emotions.

• Self-Love: regard for one's own well-being and happiness (chiefly considered as a desirable rather than narcissistic characteristic).

• Self-Care: the practice of taking an active role in protecting one's own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress.

To me this is a 3-step process. Begin with conscious attention, determine what you need, and then take an active role in your well-being. All three of these steps are important, but it’s often the implementation of the third step, self-care, that is most difficult. And it’s generally the third step that is wrongly viewed by others as selfish. Rest assured that self-care is not selfish.

In order to practice self-care it’s important to recognize where you currently are - or are not - doing your best. There are dozens of assessments to be found online, but I like this one from Andrews University. It covers physical, psychological, emotional, spiritual, and professional areas of your life, and then provides a worksheet where you can plot your strategies. Psych Central reminds us that “good self-care is key to improved mood and reduced anxiety. It’s also key to a good relationship with oneself and others.”

I can’t help you juggle everything that requires your attention, but I can take this moment to remind you of the need to slow down, pause, breathe deeply, and then practice self-focus, self-love, and self-care.