Embracing Self Care- A Journey from Burnout to Balance

In the fast-paced world we live in, the notion of "hustle" often takes centre stage. I, too, found myself caught in the whirlwind of constant activity, convinced that burning myself out was the only path to success. It wasn't until I hit a point of exhaustion that I realised the invaluable nature of self-care.

In the midst of deadlines, societal expectations, and personal goals, taking time for myself seemed like a luxury I couldn't afford. Relaxing felt like a guilty pleasure, a stolen moment where I wasn't actively pursuing something else. I knew I wasn't alone in this struggle.

My perspective on self-care underwent a significant shift after facing personal health challenges and experiencing burnout. It was a time when the weight of the world – work, university, social life, and health issues – felt overwhelming. In the chaos, I discovered the essential truth: sometimes, we need to experience burnout to recognise the importance of looking after ourselves.

This realisation prompted a transformative journey towards prioritising self-care. I decided to put myself first, embracing activities that brought me joy and a sense of well-being. Amid this process, I stumbled upon a passion that would eventually become my business – the art of self-care through candle-making.

Starting at my old workplace, I began crafting candles as a form of self-expression and therapeutic release. What started as a simple hobby quickly became my sanctuary, a happy place where I could unwind, create, and reconnect with myself. The rhythmic process of melting wax and molding it into beautiful candles became a metaphor for the transformation happening within me.

Creating a business centred around self-care wasn't just about the products; it was about encouraging others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and well-being. I found immense fulfilment in sharing the importance of putting time and effort into oneself.

Productivity, I learned, isn't solely about working tirelessly toward external goals. True productivity arises when we invest in our internal well-being. By prioritising self-care, I not only regained balance in my life but also discovered a profound sense of purpose.

In essence, my journey from burnout to balance taught me that success is not sustainable without self-care. It's not a luxury; it's a necessity. Whether it's through candle-making or any other form of self-expression, finding what brings you joy and dedicating time to it can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth and fulfilment.