The difference between self-care and avoidance often lies in your intention and long-term impact. Both can involve taking a break, but the reason behind your actions and how you feel afterward matter most.
πΏ Self-Care = Restorative and Intentional
Goal: To recharge, heal, or grow.
πΉ Examples:
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Taking a break to rest because you’re genuinely tired
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Saying no to protect your energy or boundaries
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Journaling, meditating, or going to therapy to process emotions
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Doing something joyful, nourishing, or healthy
✅ How it feels:
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Guilt-free
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Calming or empowering
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You return with more clarity, energy, or focus
π³️ Avoidance = Escaping or Numbing
Goal: To dodge discomfort, fear, or responsibility.
πΉ Examples:
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Scrolling for hours to ignore problems
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Skipping tasks or conversations that feel hard
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Binge-watching, overeating, or staying busy to avoid feelings
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Convincing yourself “you need a break” when you’re actually procrastinating
⚠️ How it feels:
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Temporary relief, followed by guilt or anxiety
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Problems stay the same or get worse
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You feel stuck or drained instead of restored
π Quick Test: Ask Yourself
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“Am I doing this to care for myself, or to avoid something uncomfortable?”
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“Will this help me feel better in the long run?”
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“What am I avoiding by doing this?”