7 Self-Care Myths That Are Keeping You Stuck (And What Actually Works)
You’ve probably heard that self-care is all about bubble baths and face masks, or maybe you’ve been told that you have to earn your rest. But what if I told you that most of what we believe about self-care is actually holding us back?
Real self-care isn’t just about pampering - it’s about honoring your needs, setting boundaries, and deeply accepting yourself. In this post, we’re busting seven of the biggest self-care myths so you can stop feeling guilty, overwhelmed, or unworthy of taking care of yourself. Plus, I’ll share actionable steps to help you build a self-care practice that truly works for you.
Let’s get into it.
Myth #1: Self-Care Is Just Bubble Baths and Face Masks
The Truth:
While there’s nothing wrong with pampering, self-care is about so much more than what you see on Instagram. True self-care means meeting your deeper needs—physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
What to Do Instead:
Identify what actually refuels you beyond surface-level acts.
Create a self-care menu that includes emotional, mental, and spiritual nourishment.
Prioritize activities that restore your energy, not just ones that look nice.
Reflection Question: What self-care practices actually make you feel recharged? Are you focusing on what looks good or what truly nourishes you?
Want a step-by-step guide? Grab the Self-Acceptance Bundle to create a meaningful self-care practice.
Myth #2: Self-Care Is Selfish
The Truth:
Many women, mothers, and caretakers struggle with guilt around self-care. Society has conditioned us to believe that putting ourselves first is selfish, but in reality, neglecting yourself doesn’t serve anyone.
What to Do Instead:
Reframe self-care as necessary, not selfish—because a well-cared-for you is better for everyone around you.
Set healthy boundaries and learn to say no without guilt.
Allow yourself permission to rest without justification.
Reflection Question: Where in your life are you putting everyone else first? How would things change if you prioritized your own well-being?
Myth #3: You Have to Earn Rest
The Truth:
Rest is a human necessity, not a reward for being productive. The idea that you must work yourself to exhaustion before you deserve a break is a toxic belief rooted in hustle culture.
What to Do Instead:
Practice rest without guilt—you don’t need to ‘deserve’ it.
Stop equating your worth with productivity.
Build daily moments of rest into your routine.
Reflection Question: How often do you let yourself rest without feeling guilty? What’s one way you can shift your mindset around this?
Break free from burnout: Join Radiant, my self-care course for empaths & sensitive souls.
Myth #4: Self-Care Looks the Same for Everyone
The Truth:
Self-care isn’t one-size-fits-all. What works for someone else might feel draining for you. Your energy type, personality, and needs all influence what true self-care looks like.
What to Do Instead:
Customize your self-care to fit your unique energy.
Explore different self-care modalities (movement, mindfulness, creativity, etc.).
Ditch the idea that you have to follow a certain routine—find what feels good for you.
Reflection Question: What’s one self-care practice that actually lights you up? How can you do more of that?
Myth #5: If It’s Not Productive, It’s a Waste of Time
The Truth:
Not everything needs to be productive. Play, joy, and relaxation are vital to your well-being.
What to Do Instead:
Give yourself permission to do things just for fun.
Let go of the need to monetize or justify your hobbies.
Recognize that joy is a form of self-care.
Reflection Question: When was the last time you did something just because it made you happy? How can you prioritize more of that?
Myth #6: You Should Always Feel Good After Self-Care
The Truth:
Some of the most important self-care practices—like setting boundaries, shadow work, or inner healing—don’t always feel good in the moment.
What to Do Instead:
Embrace the messy and uncomfortable parts of self-care.
Recognize that growth sometimes requires discomfort.
Don’t avoid deep self-care just because it’s hard.
Reflection Question: Have you ever avoided a self-care practice because it felt uncomfortable? How can you lean into deeper self-care?
Need help with self-care beyond the surface? Radiant is for you.
Myth #7: You Have to Do It Alone
The Truth:
Self-care isn’t just about solo practices—having a support system is key. We’re wired for connection, and sometimes the best self-care is asking for help.
What to Do Instead:
Seek out mentors, coaches, or communities that support your growth.
Recognize that receiving support is a self-care act.
Surround yourself with people who honor your self-care choices.
Reflection Question: Who in your life truly supports your self-care journey? How can you allow yourself to receive more support?
Reclaim Self-Care on Your Terms
It’s time to ditch the outdated self-care myths and start creating a practice that actually works for you. True self-care is about honoring your needs, not fitting into someone else’s version of wellness.
Your Next Step: Grab the Self-Acceptance Bundle for free, or dive deeper with Radiant, my course designed to help you step into self-care that feels nourishing, not forced.
It’s time to make self-care something that truly supports you.
