In the playbook of life, we often reassure ourselves that it's better to give than to receive. While altruism is rewarding and even therapeutic, there is an equally important facet of human existence that largely gets pushed to the backburner – self-care. Understand this, self-care is not being selfish.

Years back, I found myself at the brink of burnout. Success Insider was growing rapidly, and every waking minute seemed to be consumed with meetings, courses, and a never-ending to-do list. One day, as I stared blankly at my reflection, a life-altering revelation dawned upon me. The tired eyes gazing back were a mirror of neglect, and in that moment, I realized that self-care is not a bonus but a necessity.

Think about it – how can we rescue others if our own ship is sinking? Here's the truth about self-care: It's that lifejacket thrown to a drowning person. The art of prioritizing self-care is akin to being handed oxygen masks on an airplane. You fit yours before assisting others. There's nothing selfish about it!

So here's my advice for anyone grappling with the predisposed guilt of self-care. Start with the basics. Ready?

Step One: Listen to Your Body. Those persistent aches, the chronic exhaustion, they're signs from your body calling for attention. Ignoring them isn't heroism. It's self-harm of the subtlest yet deadliest kind.

Step Two: Tune into Your Mind. Realize the power of a ‘mental' vacation. Routine meditation, digital detox or a stroll in the park can do wonders. If your mind feels cluttered, it's time to clear out some space!

Step Three: Connect with Your Inner Child. Life is too short to be serious all the time. Dance in the rain, sing in the shower, watch cartoons! Rediscover the joy of life beyond work and responsibilities.

Step Four: Set Boundaries. Respect your time and energy. Learn to say “No” without feeling guilty. Remember there is a difference between being busy and productive, don’t confuse the two.

Step Five: Embrace Gratitude & Positivity. Keep a gratitude journal. Each day write down one thing, however small, that made you smile. Place affirmations, encouraging quotes around your workspace or home.

One of my favourite quotes about self-care is from writer Anne Lamott, she says, “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” How incredibly true!

Self-care isn’t about taking a luxury, Himalayan retreat – it’s about recognising the wholeness in those little, everyday rituals of care. Be it a 20-minute morning run, your favourite cup of herbal tea or tuning into a podcast that lights up your mind – it's all about topping up your tank. It’s about rest and nourishment, so you can face the game of life with the full force of your being.

You owe it to yourself to care for yourself. And, guess what? The world around you benefits tremendously from it too. Because the vibrant, well-cared-for ‘you' brings newfound energy, enthusiasm, and empathy into your environment, sharing that positivity and sparking transformation.

If there's one message I want to resonate with you today, let it be this: Self-care is not a betrayal of those who depend on you. It’s a commitment to ensuring that you can be the best version of yourself, for them and most importantly for you. Dear friend, when we care for ourselves, we inadvertently illuminate the path for others to follow – toward healthier, sustainable, compassionate lives.

So, go on, indulge in some well-deserving self-love. It’s not selfish, it’s necessary. Because a well-nourished soul is an unending source of inspiration, strength and love. And that’s the kind of ripple effect that has the power to change the world.