As I curled up on my plush sofa, a cup of herbal tea in hand, I couldn’t help but scroll through my social media feed, where everyone seemed to have it all figured out—self-care routines, morning affirmations, glowing skin. “You must love yourself,” they said. “Practice self-care,” they urged. But as I reflected on my own journey, I knew that when it comes to self-love and self-care, many things are easier said than done. Enter journaling—a tool that has transformed these lofty ideals into actionable steps.

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to nod along, agreeing with wise words about self-care and love, yet falter when it comes to implementation. That’s where my Crowned Journal from Opals & Carats comes into play. It has become my trusted companion in navigating the intricacies of self-care, guiding me through the moments when intentions clash with reality.

Here are 19 things that are easier said than done, along with practical ways to turn these intentions into actions:

 

1. Setting Boundaries

It sounds simple: just say no. Yet, setting boundaries can feel daunting. Start small—commit to one boundary this week. Journal about why it’s important to you and how it will enhance your well-being. The act of writing it down solidifies your commitment.

2. Prioritizing Yourself

In a world that constantly demands our attention, putting yourself first feels selfish. It’s not. Create a list of activities that bring you joy. Dedicate time each week to indulge in them. My journal is filled with reminders of what I love—whether it’s a spa day or a quiet afternoon with a book.

3. Practicing Gratitude

Saying you’re grateful is easy; feeling gratitude is a practice. Each morning, I write three things I’m thankful for in my Crowned Journal. It shifts my mindset and opens my heart to abundance.

4. Forgiving Yourself

We’re all human and make mistakes. Yet, forgiving ourselves often feels impossible. Write a letter of forgiveness in your journal, addressing yourself with compassion. It’s a cathartic release that fosters healing.

5. Embracing Imperfection

The pursuit of perfection can be paralyzing. Remind yourself that perfection is an illusion. Journal about moments when you embraced imperfection and the freedom that followed. Celebrate those victories!

6. Staying Present

Being in the moment is easier said than done. Create a mindfulness ritual: take a deep breath, close your eyes, and write a short reflection on how you’re feeling right now. This practice helps ground me amidst the chaos.

7. Taking Breaks

“Just take a break!” is advice that’s often dismissed. Schedule regular breaks in your day and note how you feel afterward. Use your journal to reflect on the difference it makes in your productivity and mindset.

8. Listening to Your Body

Your body speaks, but we often ignore it. Pay attention to your physical sensations and write about them. What is your body telling you? This awareness can guide your self-care decisions.

9. Seeking Help

Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it’s an act of courage. Document your thoughts on what you need assistance with in your journal. Identifying these areas is the first step toward reaching out.

10. Creating A Routine

Establishing a self-care routine sounds easy, but it requires commitment. Write down your ideal self-care routine in your Crowned Journal. Break it into small, manageable steps, and hold yourself accountable.

11. Taking Care Of Your Mental Health

Mental health should be a priority, but it’s often sidelined. Commit to daily journaling as a means of self-reflection. Capture your thoughts and feelings, and watch as clarity unfolds over time.

12. Nurturing Relationships

Nurturing friendships requires effort. Use your journal to jot down thoughts on your relationships—what you appreciate and what needs attention. Set a goal to reach out to a friend each week.

13. Celebrating Yourself

It’s easy to downplay our achievements. Make it a point to celebrate small wins by writing them down. Each entry in your Crowned Journal should be a testament to your journey—an acknowledgment of how far you’ve come.

14. Practicing Self-Compassion

Being kind to ourselves can feel foreign. When you catch yourself in negative self-talk, pause and write down three affirmations. Revisit them regularly, allowing self-compassion to take root.

15. Limiting Screen Time

We know we should limit our screen time, but doing it is challenging. Set specific time limits on your devices and journal about how it feels to disconnect. Reflect on the moments you cherish without screens.

16. Engaging In Creative Outlets

Finding time for creativity often feels impossible. Dedicate a section of your journal for brainstorming creative projects you’d love to pursue. Break them into actionable steps to make them a reality.

17. Taking Care Of Your Physical Health

Self-care includes physical health, yet it can feel overwhelming. Write down simple, actionable health goals—like drinking more water or taking a daily walk. Document your progress and how it makes you feel.

18. Allowing Yourself To Feel

It’s easy to dismiss emotions, but feeling is a crucial part of self-care. When you experience strong emotions, take time to write about them in your journal. Let it be a safe space for your feelings to flow.

19. Making Time For Joy

“Just make time for joy!” they say, but how? Create a joy list in your journal—activities that light you up. Schedule time to indulge in them, making joy a priority rather than an afterthought.

Incorporating these self-care practices into my daily life hasn’t always been easy, but the act of journaling has made it more attainable. With my Crowned Journal, each page transforms into a canvas for self-exploration and growth. I’ve learned that writing isn’t just about recording events; it’s about understanding myself, setting intentions, and crafting a life I adore.

In the quiet moments spent journaling, I’ve discovered that self-love and self-care are not destinations but ongoing journeys. They require patience, practice, and a commitment to showing up for myself, even when it’s difficult. So, here’s to the 19 things that are easier said than done—may we approach them with grace, intention, and the elegance of a well-crafted journal.

As I close my Crowned Journal for the day, I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Each entry is a testament to my journey, a reminder that self-love is not just a trend but a lifelong commitment. And with that, I raise my cup of herbal tea, toasting to the journey of self-discovery and the beautiful mess that is life.