Modern women have a lot on their plates, and they tend to get pulled in oodles of directions. Though a modern woman is fierce, independent, passionate, confident, and multi-faceted, every day can feel like a constant battle to find time for oneself when career, family, friends, and community are all vying for your relentless attention.

How do you break the cycle and take the time to give care to yourself? Self-care is about knowing what you truly desire out of life, regardless of societal norms or high expectations from others. Self-care is a daily practice that occurs when a woman takes an active role in protecting her own well-being and happiness. Let’s take a closer look at a few self-care tips for busy modern women. Here are some steps you can take to help you feel at your best.

Ask and Learn About Your Health

We as a society have begun to commercialize the phrase self-care; however, its core idea is about implementing healthy routines and systems in your life to preserve your mental and physical wellness. To start, try to become more aware of your current health status by being health literate. Make appointments with health professionals, and learn from their advisements.

Understanding the why behind their advice can help you stick to healthy habits. Stay mindful of current afflictions. Learn how critical screening processes such as pregnancy tests work. Understand the rationale behind flossing. Never follow advice blindly, and use meds and other health services responsibly.

Seriously Ask For Help

Life is unquestionably complex and chaotic, and you should never go through it all alone. Out of all the self-care tips for busy modern women, using your resources wisely is at the very top of the list. When you have too much on your plate, take advantage of external opportunities and ask for help.

Calling for backup when you need it isn’t weak or selfish. You’re simply doing the best you can at home and at work—and having a helping hand to share the responsibilities will benefit more than just yourself. Remember, it’s okay to say “no,” as much as it’s okay to ask for help.

Prioritize and Value Alone Time

How often do you take the time to sit down and just breathe or do something for yourself purely for your own enjoyment? Don’t forget to spend time on what is truly fulfilling to you. Life is not about simply checking off a list of achievements each day.

Turn off the tech, and pull out a good old-fashioned paperback. Make yourself a cup of hot tea. Clear your mind, stay hydrated and well-fed, and let yourself simply be—even for a few moments. Whatever you choose to do, make it happen. Self-care is a gentle reminder to be kind to yourself, no matter how chaotic or complicated life is.