7 Common Reasons Women Delay Self-Care (And Why Now Is the Time to Start)
How many times have you told yourself, “I’ll start taking care of myself when things calm down”? For so many women, self-care ends up at the bottom of the to-do list. Between work, family, and constant giving, the idea of slowing down can feel unrealistic, indulgent, or even selfish.
But here’s the truth: delaying self-care comes with a cost. As a yoga instructor and wellbeing coach, I’ve seen firsthand how pushing your needs aside leads to burnout, resentment, and disconnection. The good news? You don’t need hours in your day or a huge budget to start prioritising yourself.
Here are seven of the most common reasons women delay self-care, and why now is the perfect time to shift the story.
1. “I Do not Have Time”
This is the number one reason women give for putting themselves last. Life feels busy, and the thought of carving out space can feel impossible.
You can always make time for what matters, and this time, it’s you.
That’s why the 21-Day I Choose Me Challenge is designed to take only 21 minutes a day. A short, structured routine with yoga, meditation, and journaling actually gives you time back by reducing stress and boosting energy.
2. “It is Too Expensive.”
From spa days to retreats, self-care often gets painted as a luxury. It’s easy to think you need hundreds of dollars to do it right.
True self-care doesn’t have to break the bank. The challenge costs less than $3 a day — far less than the financial (and emotional) toll of burnout.
3. “It Will not Work for Me”
Maybe you’ve tried apps, classes, or programs before and felt like nothing stuck. It can be discouraging to believe this time will be any different.
The challenge works in micro-steps. Each day is structured with small, science-backed practices that build momentum. Past participants have proven that consistency, even in small amounts, creates real transformation.
Don’t let past attempts discourage you; real change happens one small, consistent step at a time.
4. “I am Not Good at Yoga or Meditation.”
Many women hold back because they think they’re not flexible enough, or they’ve never meditated before.
Reframe: You don’t need to be an expert. The challenge is beginner-friendly and guided by a certified yoga instructor who understands the fears of starting out. You’ll be supported every step of the way.
If you’ve ever felt like self-care isn’t for you, this is your moment to try something different.
Join the Challenge Now
5. “What If I Fall Behind?”
Perfectionism sneaks in here. If you can’t commit to doing it every day without fail, you might not start at all.
The challenge is designed to be flexible. You can move at your own pace, pause when you need to, and pick up where you left off. Progress matters more than perfection.
You’re never left behind. The challenge is always there for you to return to whenever you’re ready.
6. “I Do not Want to Do This Alone”
Self-care can feel isolating, especially when others don’t understand why you’re making changes.
You’re not doing it alone. The challenge comes with access to a supportive community of women plus a live coaching call, so you feel seen, heard, and encouraged.
7. “It Feels Selfish”
This is perhaps the hardest objection of all. Many women feel guilty for prioritising themselves, as if self-care takes something away from others.
Reframe: When you take care of yourself, everyone around you benefits. You show up with more energy, presence, and patience. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s an act of resilience and love.
Additional Tips for Making Self-Care Stick
Start small. Even two minutes of mindful breathing can shift your day.
Choose consistency over intensity. Gentle, daily practices build stronger habits than occasional big efforts.
Release guilt. Remember, rest and restoration are just as productive as action.
Track your progress. Seeing your growth helps motivation stick.
Conclusion
The reasons you’ve been delaying self-care are valid, but they don’t have to hold you back any longer. With short, structured, supportive practices, you can finally reclaim your time, energy, and self-worth.
The 21-Day I Choose Me Challenge was created for women just like you — women who give endlessly but are ready to start choosing themselves without guilt or overwhelm.
Your time is now.
And if you know another woman who keeps putting herself last, share this post with her. Sometimes, one invitation is all it takes to remind someone she’s worth it.
