When my assistant reminded me this morning that I had promised to write about self-care for Mother’s Day, I thought to myself, oh crap, not only had I forgotten, I am also so burnt out. How could I possibly write about that?
Authenticity is important to me so when I write on a topic, I need to relate to it. Since this COVID-19 craziness has started, I’ve been weathering the storm in my own boat just like everyone else. I’m one of the lucky ones without small children who need homeschooling or an unemployed, abusive husband stuck at home. But I’ve had some challenges of my own.
So, knowing I was burnt out and desperately in need of self-care to be able to write with authenticity, I did what works for me. I took a long motorcycle ride. And now as I sit on the couch with my feet up, enjoying a glass of wine, I am refreshed enough to discuss self-care for Mother’s Day.
First, let me say that self-care does mean doing whatever it is that rejuvenates you. It could be a long hot bath, a yoga class, or Facetiming with your best friend. I’m not denying that type of self-care is critical.
Instead, I’d like to challenge you to think of self-care in terms of finances. Do you keep track of your spending? Are you living within your means? Are you planning and saving for large expenditures before making those purchases? Have you made a commitment to invest in your retirement?
Too often, I think especially as women, we don’t think of managing our money as taking care of ourselves. But it is.
Being in control of your finances is one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself. I think about it like the warning they give you on airplanes. Put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others.
If you’re a mom and have kids depending on you, don’t overspend on them. Take care of your own financial needs so that you are secure first. Then you can help them if they need assistance. For example, is it smarter to pay for your kids’ college or your own retirement? The argument I’ve heard and agree with is that they can borrow money to go to college. But you can’t borrow money to retire on.
This Mother’s Day, I challenge you to reflect on the self-care you are giving to your finances. Are you managing them smartly so that you can also be there to assist your children should they need it? Do you honor and respect yourself by facing your money demons and getting your financial house in order?
Self-care comes in many forms.
Taking the time to make your money management a priority is paramount to your financial success.
I urge you to examine your mindset and face any areas where you may be neglecting yourself financially.
Happy Mother’s Day to you all,
Sher
Sherry Lutz Herrington is the owner of Sherrington Financial Fitness, a business consulting and accounting firm specializing in strategic business planning and solid financial accounting for businesses. She is also the author of Strong Women Thriving (https://strongwomenthriving.com/), a blog which focuses on empowering women to be financially savvy, particularly after experiencing financial abuse. Sherry is currently writing a new book that both shares her personal story and addresses financial abuse. She can be reached at hello@strongwomenthriving.com. Join our FB group https://www.facebook.com/groups/womensurivingfinancialabuse