It can often feel like there’s always one more thing to do. Answer one more email, empty the dishwasher, start the next load of laundry, proofread a board report. The list can go on and on. I often find myself playing the productivity game of “what can I check off the list while the coffee brews?” or something very similar. But what if that “one more thing” could be a moment for self-care?
Self-care is often misconceived as a luxury, something we indulge in when everything else is done. I often find I use it as a reward system. If I finish this project, I can book a massage or facial. I tend to think only of the bigger things when it comes to self-care. A spa day, a weekend away, a whole day reading or binging the next great series. What I have come to realize, however, is that self-care is a necessity, and it doesn’t always need to be a grand gesture. The “one more thing” mentality is a reminder that we’re constantly pushing ourselves to the limit. While striving for productivity is important, it’s crucial to recognize the value of pausing and focusing on our own well-being. The more we stretch ourselves thin, the less we’re able to show up as our best selves for others.
This is where the power of self-care lies. When we consistently take time for ourselves, we prevent burnout and maintain our mental, emotional, and physical health. Rather than viewing self-care as an obstacle, a luxurious reward or another item to check off the list, it should be seen as an integral part of productivity. In fact, self-care enhances productivity by helping us recharge, refocus, and approach tasks with a clearer, more balanced mind.
Think of self-care as a reset button. A short walk in nature, a deep breath, a call with the person who makes you laugh or even a five-minute meditation can help reduce stress and restore your sense of peace. These small moments are not distractions from work, they are investments in your ability to be more effective, creative, and present. Without them, we risk losing sight of our priorities, letting stress control us, and ultimately, compromising our health.
Moreover, embracing the idea that “there’s always one more thing to be done” doesn’t have to be negative. It can be a reminder to prioritize self-care. It’s important to recognize that being constantly on the go without rest isn’t sustainable. Self-care gives us the resilience to tackle our responsibilities with intention and mindfulness.
Most of us would never consider turning away a friend or a colleague who needed just 15 minutes of our time. We show up. We answer the call. So, this year, let’s show up for ourselves just as we would for others in our lives. And the next time you think, “There’s one more thing to be done,” pause and ask yourself if that “one more thing” could be taking care of you. Your well-being should always be at the top of your to-do list.
These blogs are brought to you by NTCA Women in Telecom, a program dedicated to empowering women in the telecommunications industry. To learn more about the program, connect with the WIT community, or explore opportunities for involvement, visit ntca.org/wit