Self-care should be a key consideration when building a budget.
One of the biggest mistakes first time budgeters make is to be unrealistic and create a budget that is too restrictive. In order to succeed you should leave room for relaxation and fun. Rather than assigning a numerical percentage of one’s budget to self-care I would recommend self-care be the thread that weaves each line item in a budget together. Approach the values assigned to each bucket thoughtfully and analytically. A budget should not make you feel trapped and miserable. Prioritizing self-care prevents this.
However, it’s important to get some of the bigger pieces of your budget set up first. Look at how much debt you are carrying (and if its “good” debt or “bad” debt), and your payment plan. Check what level retirement and emergency savings are at, and how much is going to savings and investments. I would also identify and quantify goals for the future. Once you feel comfortable with those items, it’s time to look at self-care.
In my work, I combine my background as a yoga teacher and a CPA, to help folks heal their relationship with money by finding balance and joy in their finances. Dedicating time and money to self-care is a huge part of that healing. I treat self-care as anything that helps someone connect to their authentic self, and regulate their nervous system. This could be what is often considered more traditional care such as health insurance and therapy. It could be more mindful care such as yoga and meditation instruction. Lighting your favorite candle, a massage, house plants, pet ownership, dance lessons, a skin care routine, organic food, and vacations are all wonderful ways to nurture your well-being.
