Working 9-5 can drain you emotionally. If you are a full-time employee and still have the energy to go home, cook, clean up and actually get a good night sleep, Monday to Friday, I salute you! The big question is do you have a self-care budget? If not, here’s why you need one.

According to the American Psychological Association, 65% of U.S. employees cited work as a source of stress and 36% say the workload is the main source. That is 40% more than their European counterparts.

Self-care guarantees better productivity, self-esteem and self-awareness. Without it, it could lead to work-related deaths. The main causes reported in developing countries are deteriorating working conditions, increased job insecurity or unmanageable workloads.

Treating yourself

If you don’t love yourself, who will!

If you aren’t managing your expenses then you MUST start now. Once you have done that, you can easily budget for self-care activities. Personally, I have a daily self-care routine. Every morning I go to my favourite Swahili restaurant for breakfast, this cheers me up. Mahamri, mbaazi accompanied by spiced tea is my piece of heaven before work. You need to find your own.

My mother has a weekly self-care budget, she must get a “tension-releasing” massage, pedicure and manicure every Saturday. The old man drinks lemon tea at the balcony every 6 am while bird watching. We are all different, you can find what works for you within your budget.

My mentor introduced me to a 50/20/30 rule. 50% of your income goes to expenses like rent and utilities, 20% for your savings and 30% for treating yourself.

Self-Care Activity At Work

Working at the office can be stressful, especially if your company doesn’t have an employee lounge or enforce leave days. It is your responsibility to take care of yourself, no matter what. You can decide to make yourself packed lunch, eat at the office cafeteria or go out for lunch at a restaurant at least twice a month. Leaving the office even for 20 minutes during lunch hours can do you wonders.

Self-Care Activity Outside Work

I have a habit of trying new restaurants or going to a cafe every Saturday just to have coffee and write fictional ebooks. As a creative designer, I must invest in my peace of mind. Otherwise, my creativity will be affected or worse, lose my mind. You can find events around you or join a tours and travel group that have discounted packages.

How To Boost Your Budget

If you’re thinking of travelling to a tropical island for that good weekend getaway but short on cash, I would highly recommend Table Banking. You have to start early in order to benefit from it.

You must take care of your mental, emotional and physical health before it’s too late. There are cases of employees committing suicide or dying on the job. Please, save your family and friends the pain and invest in yourself.