Devotions for Women: 4 Signs Your Self-Care Has Turned to Selfishness

Devotions for Women

Recently, I had the opportunity to get together with a few girlfriends. We are all in the throws of motherhood, the height of careers, plates overfilling, and flirting with burnout. One friend shared that mom's guilt almost prevented her from coming, while another confessed she felt stressed about leaving her chores and to-do list for the weekend. Intended as encouragement, one finally chanted, "Don't feel bad; we all need a little self-care. That is what this time is for, so we can rest and recharge."

But for some of us listening, this statement about self-care only caused more anxiety. For some, the mention of self-care causes the praise hands to go up, and others cringe at it. How can two little words cause such a difference in reactions?

Coined in the 1950s, self-care isn't a new concept. But in the last few years, it seems as if you can't scroll social media, browse aisles lined with magazines, or scan literature without being reminded of the need for self-care.

Self-care isn't harmful, but like anything intended for good, humans can become overindulgent, turning a neutral thing into an idol—one tell-tale sign is if you've crossed the line from self-care into selfishness.