I was sick last week, and I didn't want to tell anyone because I thought it would be a burden. I didn't want to ask for help. I wanted to keep doing everything—cooking, cleaning, taking care of everyone—even though I was running a fever. And it hit me that this isn't noble. This is just hurting myself. 😔

I think being a good woman doesn't mean destroying yourself. It means being strong enough to take care of yourself so you can actually be there for the people you love. It means saying "I need rest" without guilt. It means eating well, sleeping enough, taking care of your body and your mind. Because if you fall apart, what happens to everyone who depends on you? 💚

My mother told me something wise: "A tired woman can't love well." And she's right. When I take time for myself—even just an hour to sit quietly or read or just breathe—I come back better. I'm more patient, more kind, more present. So maybe taking care of myself is actually the most generous thing I can do. 🕯️

If taking care of myself makes me a better woman for the people I love, is it really selfish?