What does “lazy” mean to you? I had a professor challenge me on saying the word “lazy” when I talked about my form of self-care. She reflected back to me that we all have different needs and it doesn’t make us lazy. It made me pause and think about how I talked to myself. Recently, when I hear someone label themselves as “lazy”, I ask how the word became a part of their vocabulary. There are a variety of different definitions, but how we attach meaning to it ourselves matters the most!
The Implications Behind the Word
In a society that prioritizes accomplishments and work ethic, as individuals, we have to prioritize rest. Self-care looks different for everyone whether it be hanging out with friends, traveling, a day alone, binge watching a new series, movement, or a long nap. Our needs won’t always look the same day to day.
The more negative our inner voice becomes, the more we start to believe the negativity, and feel blame. Instead of placing blame on yourself, check in with yourself. See where your emotions/expectations/thoughts are at.
If your room isn’t as clean this week, maybe you’re more emotionally drained. Do an activity that feels comforting.
If you aren’t sticking to a routine, maybe the routine isn’t fulfilling for you. Change up the routine instead.
Challenge Yourself
A challenge for the New Year could mean being kinder to yourself and letting go of pressure and expectations that aren’t serving you. Here’s to you not placing blame on yourself and being honest about your needs. Here’s to not labeling yourself as lazy and allowing yourself to rest.
Julie Pate, LPC, LCDC Intern
Julie’s passion is working with adolescents and young adults through life transitions, identity exploration, LGBTQIA+, substance use, eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. She believes everyone deserves the opportunity to heal and be recovered.