The “self-care” and wellness industry has experienced massive growth in the past decade, with some estimates valuing the total health and wellness sector of the economy in the trillions for the U.S. alone.  

Social media is full of products that are supposed to help you look and feel like a better version of yourself. But self-care isn’t just about red-light masks or vibration plates—it’s about reducing your stress so that your future self can have peace of mind.  

Sometimes self-care is doing the uncomfortable thing now so that you relax and reap the benefits later. We know this to be true about exercise or healthy eating, but it also applies to your finances.  

If it isn’t already, I’d like to encourage you to make financial wellness part of your regular self-care routine. What could that look like?  

• Know your numbers: Check your bank, loan, and credit card accounts frequently. Remember that information is power, and regular audits can lead to fewer surprises.  
• Let go of any shame or awkwardness surrounding your financial situation: You might have made some poor or uninformed choices in the past, and honestly, that happens to everyone.  Put some boundaries in place to make better decisions in the future. Is there anyone in your life (a family member or close friend) who you think manages their money particularly well? Talk to them and ask advice! Money shouldn’t be a taboo subject that we avoid discussing, as long as you pick an appropriate time and place. 
• Spend some time in self-reflection: What actually matters to you? How can you use money as a tool to further your goals? Budgets aren’t punishment, they create room for you to find joy and prioritize the things that are important to you! Simply shifting your mindset can work wonders.  
• Consider ways to give back: This might sound counterintuitive, but hey—I’m not a financial advisor. Tithing and being generous with the money God has blessed me with is a tenant of my personal faith. If that’s something important to you and your faith, I’d encourage you to act on that now, and not wait until you reach a certain financial comfort level. I’d argue that being generous with your time and resources is good for the soul, and also helps to build gratitude.  

The focus on self-care is all about investing in your future self. What can you do today so that you are the healthiest, best version of yourself in twenty years? Your next step in that direction might just involve a spreadsheet. 

This blog was written by Alexis Flowers, the Vice President of Programs at The Network of enlightened Women.