You Can’t Pour From an Empty Watering Can
The post-holiday slump hit hard this year. After the whirlwind of December, I found myself stepping into January feeling both overwhelmed and drained. Between school, home life, and trying to keep my mental health in check, I knew something had to give—but I didn’t want it to be me.
Life doesn’t slow down just because we need a break. The responsibilities, deadlines, and expectations keep rolling in, and it’s easy to get caught in the cycle of doing everything for everyone else while forgetting to take care of ourselves. But I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that you can’t water a garden from an empty watering can.
Think of yourself as that watering can. Your relationships, passions, hobbies, and successes—they’re the flowers, fruits, and vegetables in your garden. If you don’t take the time to refill, everything starts to wither. So, this year, I’m making a conscious effort to maintain my wellness first, so I have enough to give to the people and things I love.
The Gym: Slow Progress, Big Payoff
I won’t lie—when I first started going to the gym, it felt like just another thing on my to-do list. But now, after a few months, I’m finally seeing results, and that’s been incredibly motivating. It’s not just about the physical changes (though those are a nice bonus); it’s about proving to myself that I can show up for me.
Some days, I don’t feel like going. But I remind myself that movement is a form of self-care. It’s not about punishing my body—it’s about giving it what it needs.
Meditation: A Pause Button in the Chaos
I use a meditation app to help me slow down and reset, and honestly, it’s been a game-changer. Meditation doesn’t have to be complicated—just a few minutes of stillness can make a difference. It’s like pressing the pause button on a busy day, allowing me to step back, breathe, and remind myself that I don’t have to carry everything all at once.
Coping with Anxiety: Slowing Down to Reset
When anxiety creeps in, my first instinct is to push through it, to keep going at full speed. But I’ve learned that sometimes, the best thing I can do is pause. Taking a moment for myself—whether it’s a cup of tea, a few deep breaths, or stepping outside for fresh air—helps reset my mind. Slowing down isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a way to recharge so I can keep going.
Making Time for Self-Care (Even When It Feels Impossible)
If you’re someone who struggles to justify self-care, I get it. It’s easy to push it aside, to tell yourself that there’s just not enough time. But here’s the truth: if you don’t take care of yourself, everything else suffers. Your relationships, your work, your creativity—it all depends on you being well.
So, start small. Find little ways to refill your watering can every day. Maybe it’s five minutes of quiet in the morning, a walk, a favourite hobby, or just letting yourself rest without guilt.
This season of life might be busy, but I refuse to lose myself in it. And if you’ve been running on empty, I hope this is your reminder to refill your own watering can—because you deserve it.
Warmly,
Jessica