By Sophie Hartley
Wellbeing & Lifestyle Writer
Perhaps we need to become more comfortable with the fact that we're not perfect
There's a distinct strength in knowing when to stop. Not because the work's finished or because everything's been ticked off the list, but because sometimes we simply need to take a breath and give ourselves a moment.
For women working in the trades, business and demanding careers, there's always something that needs doing. There are jobs to finish, customers to deal with, deadlines to meet and people relying on us. Then there's everything waiting at home. It's very easy to become so used to being busy that we forget to ask ourselves how we're actually feeling.
Taking care of ourselves shouldn't become another job on the list.
Wellbeing isn't about following a perfect routine or treating your body like another project that needs fixing, it’s about knowing when to slow down. It might be taking ten minutes with a cup of tea, getting some fresh air, sitting in the garden, having an early night or simply giving yourself permission to do nothing for a while.
For too long, women have been taught that health is something we need to earn through restriction, punishment and constant physical change. We're told to lose weight, alter our appearance and hide the parts of ourselves that don't fit an idea of perfection. But our bodies aren't projects. They carry us through long days, physical work, stress, family life and all the challenges that come with being a woman. They deserve care and respect, not a constant list of things we believe need changing.
There's also a difference between being strong and constantly pushing yourself beyond your limits. Strength doesn't mean ignoring exhaustion or carrying everything alone, it’s recognising that you need a break and sometimes it's asking for help, saying no or accepting that today you've done enough.
Our bodies give us signals all the time. Tiredness, stress and feeling overwhelmed can be signs that we need to pay attention rather than simply push harder. Learning to listen to those signals isn't a weakness. It's part of looking after ourselves.
And perhaps we need to become more comfortable with the fact that we're not perfect. Our bodies change. We have curves, scars, lines and imperfections. These aren't failures. They're part of living, working, growing older and experiencing life.
For women in the trades especially, where being capable, dependable and resilient is often part of the job, it can be difficult to admit that you need to stop. But being strong doesn't mean you have to run yourself into the ground.
You're allowed to rest.
You're allowed to take care of yourself.
You're allowed to put yourself on the list too.
Wellbeing isn't another target to achieve. It's about creating a life where you've got enough energy to enjoy the things you've worked so hard to build.
So the next time you find yourself rushing from one job to the next or trying to fit another task into an already full day, take a moment. Take a breath. Give yourself permission to stop. Because strong women need to rest too.
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