It’s not self care - it’s just selfish 🤦🏽‍♀️

Being a mom means priorities shift. It’s not about never treating yourself. It’s about knowing when to.

Anything I make on this app that involves sharing my children - EVERYTHING goes back to them. I rarely treat myself in general because my kids are my number one priority in life.

If your kid’s clothes don’t fit, school payments are late, or the fridge is empty but you’re getting filler and designer bags… that’s not empowerment, that’s misplaced priorities.

Self-care is healthy. Neglecting your kid for aesthetics isn’t.

#momhottakes #lemon8challenge #AskLemon8 #lemon8parentingcreator #motherhood

2025/11/8 Edited to

... Read moreAs a mom, finding the right balance between self-care and family responsibilities can be challenging. The phrase “It’s not self-care - it’s just selfish” highlights an important perspective often overlooked in parenting conversations. Self-care should involve nurturing your well-being without compromising your children’s fundamental needs. For example, spending on hair and nails while children face unmet necessities like school payments or proper clothing is not empowering—it’s misdirected prioritization. This message resonates strongly with many mothers who struggle to justify moments of personal indulgence amidst constant caregiving. True self-care can be simple and meaningful, such as resting when exhausted, seeking emotional support, or enjoying affordable hobbies that rejuvenate one’s spirit without creating financial strain. The crux lies in self-awareness and balance: treating yourself moderately, while ensuring that your children’s basic needs—nutrition, education, and comfort—are fully met. Many parenting experts stress that self-care boosts mental and physical health, which ultimately benefits the whole family. However, when personal expenditures start exceeding necessary family expenses, it risks neglect and breeds guilt and resentment. A mindful approach involves setting clear priorities and boundaries, considering long-term child welfare alongside short-term personal happiness. Incorporating these insights can lead to a healthier family dynamic where moms feel empowered yet responsible. This balanced perspective encourages moms to view self-care not as selfishness but as strategic well-being that supports their primary role as caregivers, ensuring they can provide the best for their children both physically and emotionally.

33 comments

🫧itsbubblesbeech🫧's images
🫧itsbubblesbeech🫧

The thing is sometimes we over spend on children and not buy anything for ourselves and that is not ok either so I think we all need to find a balance

Desi's images
Desi

I agree! I have a 9 month old daughter and i will always make sure she has what she needs before I even THINK about getting anything for myself.

See more comments

Related posts

A handwritten guide on lined paper titled 'Self-care' in a blue cloud, decorated with colorful butterflies. It defines self-care and lists practices for mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and social well-being, including real-life examples like resting without guilt and setting boundaries.
🌸 Self-Care Isn’t Selfish! 🌸
Self-care is more than bubble baths and candles, it’s the intentional practice of tending to your mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. ✨ Here are some ways you can nourish yourself in every area: 🧠 Mental — Journal your thoughts, say no to overstimulation, reframe ne
Jessica Irene

Jessica Irene

5158 likes

Self Care isn't Selfish it's Mental Health
Slowing down in our fast-paced world can be a transformative practice that nurtures both our mind and body. As we take a step back from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we open ourselves to the beauty of the present moment. This mindful approach allows us to reconnect with our inner selves,
The Boho Apothecary

The Boho Apothecary

407 likes

Setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s self-respect
Create beautiful image with this text. A boundary is not a punishment but a declaration of self love! Boundaries aren’t about isolation or severing your connections. It’s about establishing safety & value. Recognize the red flags while defining your limits. Breakthrough can only occur when y
Kylie SAHM

Kylie SAHM

71 likes

It’s not selfISH, it’s self-CARE.
My life is a mess too. I’m nowhere near perfect. But my health is at the top of my priorities. If I’m unhealthy, I can’t be there for my friends and family. If I don’t take care of myself, I can’t be there for my patients. If I’m skipping the gym just because I have a lot of othe
Dr. Katie

Dr. Katie

2 likes

It’s time to be selfish?!
OK, #letschat about it Growing up, we’re constantly told that it’s not all about us and to not be selfish. We’re told that we need to look out for everyone else, but never told to look out for ourselves. Well I’m telling you now, if looking after you is selfish, then get selfish! Long
Brittany Tyler

Brittany Tyler

8 likes

You aren't selfish
"There’s a moment in life when you stop apologizing for protecting your peace. You’re not selfish—you’ve just learned to value yourself. True love and understanding come when we respect our own boundaries while still extending kindness to others. The poet's words remind us: standing firm is
__hearfelt

__hearfelt

18 likes

Sis, self care isn’t selfish, it’s spiritual.
Self care isn’t selfish, it’s stewardship. When you protect your body, mind, and spirit, you honor the God who entrusted them to you. 1. Protect quiet time “Very early in the morning… Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” – Mark 1:35 2. Nourish your
Ashia Jones

Ashia Jones

54 likes

🌸Self-care isn’t selfish it’s sacred🌸
Taking a few extra minutes to indulge in scrubs body butter shaving oil and a dreamy body spray isn’t just a routine it’s a ritual 💆🏽‍♀️💖 Romanticize your life even in the smallest ways light a candle play your favorite playlist and turn your shower into a spa moment 🌸🛁 Because you deserve to fee
Empress🧚🏾🧿

Empress🧚🏾🧿

81 likes

✨"Self-care isn’t selfish—it's survival✨
Protect your peace, prioritize your rest, and pour into yourself like you do for others. 💆🏽‍♀️✨ #SelfCareMatters #ProtectYourEnergy " #selfcareroutine #peace #happiness
Qnita

Qnita

27 likes

Self-care isn't selfish, it's important! 💚
#KeepYourBatteryCharged #SelfCare #Mindfulness #MentalHealthMatters #TakeCareOfYou #Motivation #MentalHealth #Safespace #Growthmindset #fyp
Justmetessaanne

Justmetessaanne

13 likes

✨💕 Self-Care Isn’t Selfish, It’s Survival 💖✨
✨ Love yourself a little extra right now. You're balancing so much, handling things no one sees, & doing your best. Give yourself GRACE! ✨ Sometimes we forget how much we’re truly carrying. The deadlines, the responsibilities, the invisible emotional load no one else sees, it’s a lot. 🖤
Margarita

Margarita

36 likes

Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s strategy.
I popped out for a little “me time” and somehow ended up in the fragrance aisle (again 👀). But babyyy… Sand + Fog really did something with these new scents — clean, coastal, soft luxe energy. And just when I thought I was done, I stumbled on a perfume that had me looking in the mirror like oh yeah
K A💲H BILLIONAIRE 💰🤑

K A💲H BILLIONAIRE 💰🤑

13 likes

A serene sunset over a body of water with a grassy foreground and distant trees. Overlay text reads "My Girlhood. LOVE / PEACE / HAPPINESS" and "Learn To Love Yourself First," with the Lemon8 logo and username.
It’s OK To Be Selfish With Self 💟🖤✨🌸
I’m such a giving person, loving, a girls girls, a person who loves to help and see everybody win ! Nothing is wrong with that at all but sometimes I feel I’m way too nice lol . I only say that because the way I treat people, or the way I am with people, I never really get that same genuine lov
Iy’Sha P

Iy’Sha P

2 likes

A handwritten note on lined paper defines 'Selfish' as prioritizing one's own needs without regard for impact, driven by ego. 'Selfless' is defined as prioritizing others' needs with compassion, often at personal cost. The image introduces 'Self-full' as the middle ground: honoring your needs while caring for others.
Selfish Versus Selfless
#boundaries #healingjourney #codependencyrecovery #selfcare #youmatter Finding the middle ground between being selfish versus selfless.
Jessica Irene

Jessica Irene

382 likes

A person with dark hair and an orange top looks at the camera, wearing a yellow smiley-face nose strip. The text "SELF CARE IS JUST CARE" is overlaid in yellow at the bottom, with "Lemon8" and "@briannacdiaz" also visible.
It’s not selfish 🫶
#positiveenergy #lemon8challenge Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s just care. Taking time to rest, set boundaries, and prioritize your well-being isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. You don’t need permission to take care of yourself, and you don’t have to earn the right to rest. Your health—mental
Brianna Diaz

Brianna Diaz

1 like

✨Self-care isn’t selfish — it’s essential.✨

Lately I’ve been reminding myself that slowing down and taking time for me is just as important as getting things done. One of my favorite ways to unwind is by sticking to my skincare routine — washing the day away, layering on my serums, and just breathing for a few minutes. 🧖‍♀️💆‍♀️ It’s not j
Jules Bonita x0

Jules Bonita x0

2 likes

Why Self-Care Isn’t Selfish 💅🏽🤍
Self-care isn’t selfish as a woman because we are constantly pouring into everyone and everything around us. Our families, our jobs, our relationships, our homes. Somewhere along the way, we’re taught that rest has to be earned and that doing something just for ourselves is a luxury. It’s not. I
Jordyn McKenzie

Jordyn McKenzie

7 likes

A flat lay of self-care items on a white bed, including a laptop, a magazine titled 'the gentlewoman', wireless earbuds, and a planner. The image is captioned 'Things I Do To Take Care of Me #15DaysHealthier'.
A pink yoga mat, a white tote bag, sunglasses, and white sneakers are arranged on a floor next to a white door. The image is captioned 'exercise & move my body'.
A person's legs in fuzzy brown slippers are next to a bathtub filled with water, a lit candle, and a bar of soap. The image is captioned 'adhere to a nighttime routine'.
Putting Yourself First is NOT SELFISH
self care, both physical and mental, is super important to me. it’s essential to prioritize your mind, body, and soul to be the best version of yourself. these are just a few things i do, but i would love to share more. pictures are not mine. #embracevulnerability #mentalhealth #holist
Fiona Dunphy🥭🪩

Fiona Dunphy🥭🪩

63 likes

It’s not selfish
Let’s reframe what it means to prioritize yourself. Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s your responsibility. When you take care of yourself, you’re doing more than improving your own life—you’re making it easier to show up for everyone who needs you. Building strength gives you the energy to handle
Michelle Gaiser

Michelle Gaiser

1 like

It’s Not Selfish To Take Care Of Yourself!
It’s Necessary! VD: Ability Blind Mom Eating Fries. #SelfLove #SelfCare #Love #AbilityMom
Ability Blind Mom

Ability Blind Mom

4 likes

Self-care isn’t selfish… it’s necessary.
Today I chose to take care of ME. Not just as a mom, but as a woman, as a person. Because raising a child especially a child with special needs takes everything out of you some days. The appointments. The therapies. The advocating. The late nights. The constant worrying. It’s a full-time
GeminizedCee

GeminizedCee

3 likes

Is Self-Care Selfish? Let’s Chat About It.
For years, many of us have been told that putting ourselves first is selfish. But here’s the truth: Self-care is not selfish. It’s essential. Without taking care of YOU: 😞 You can’t show up as your best self for your family and loved ones. 😞 Your mental, emotional, and spiritual health suffer
The Healing Coach ❤️‍🩹

The Healing Coach ❤️‍🩹

5 likes

Self care isn’t selfish it’s mental health
My Current Read 📖 Name of the Book self love and confidence for women 📄 My Favorite Quotes: “self car is like being your own best friend cheering your- self on when you do well and offering a shoulder to lean on when you stumble “ ⭐ Star Rating 10/10 11/19Tuesday 😊
Ferdu

Ferdu

3 likes

A flat lay with a notebook, pen, hair clip, perfume, and dried flowers, featuring the text "If Only I Knew These 3 Sooner" and the account handle.
A dried plant stem against a light brown background with the number "1" and the text "STOP COMPARING YOUR JOURNEY" overlaid.
A dried plant stem against a light brown background with the number "2" and the text "PRIORITIZE SELF-LOVE" overlaid.
Why You Should Be Selfish
If you don’t prioritize your own life, no one else will. We’re often taught that putting ourselves first is selfish, but the reality is that being “selfish” might be the most generous thing you can do—not just for yourself, but for everyone around you. Advice for Prioritizing Your Life: 1. B
BalanceAffluenc

BalanceAffluenc

22 likes

Self Care is Not Selfish, it’s Self Love
Affirmation of the Day: I Take Care of Self #affirmations #selfcare #affirmationoftheday #positivity #selflove
Tarena G

Tarena G

0 likes

Self-Care Isn’t Selfish. It’s Strategic. 🤍
This morning I didn’t rush. I didn’t scroll. I didn’t jump straight into everyone else’s needs. I poured into mine. Taking a morning for yourself is not indulgent — it’s leadership. When I care for my body, I show up better for: • My family • My team • My business • My community I
Ashley Bueckers

Ashley Bueckers

0 likes

Self care isn’t selfish - it’s essential.
#Inspiration #Motivation
Jae

Jae

36 likes

Are You Selfish? 🫢
Or do you just care about your well-being? 🤔 When I was younger, I was told that I was selfish more times than I can count. My mom would often tell me I was selfish for not giving her money to buy cigarettes, with my FAFSA money or my hard work earnings from my job. I️ paid for my room at the age o
jasmine ruiz

jasmine ruiz

2 likes

Why Being Selfish as a mom is a form of self care
Being a stay-at-home mom for me means your world revolves around your family, but when was the last time you let it revolve around YOU? 🤔 I used to feel guilty for wanting some “me-time,” but I’ve realized that taking care of myself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary! Whether it’s a solo coffee run ☕,
Tootsie_Roll

Tootsie_Roll

6 likes

🌻SELF CARE AINT’T SELFISH 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾🌻
#lemon8partner #lemon8creator #Lemon8Diary #lemon8diarychallenege #selfcare
Yannah 🌻Corporate Momma🌻

Yannah 🌻Corporate Momma🌻

19 likes

it’s NOT selfish ….
when you do what truly makes you happy —— a world beyond your dreams suddenly doesn’t seem so far ✨✨ #motivation #fyp #fypシ #selfcare #selflove
Kash

Kash

3 likes

Self-love is not selfish 🥰
It's ok to distance yourself from people who disturb your peace. Be around those who bring out the best in you, not the worst in you. Self-love is not selfish Taking care of yourself is not selfish. #LoveYourself #behappy #motivation #healing #positivemindset Life is too s
Just Me ❤️ Angel

Just Me ❤️ Angel

3 likes

Self-Care Isn’t Selfish: it’s self-love
The audio in this video corresponds to the exact words of Dr. Mario Alonso Puig in one of his interviews. He’s a doctor from Madrid who currently works in communication, leadership, and neuroscience, and I have an incredible admiration for him. #marioalonsopuig #neuroscience #selfesteem #sel
Living with Stella

Living with Stella

2 likes

Real Talk: Prioritizing Yourself Isn’t Selfish—
Let’s be real—some days feel heavier than others. The to-do list keeps growing, the group chats stay active, and the pressure to be “on” all the time? Exhausting. But here’s your gentle reminder: you are allowed to put yourself first. Not just when you’re burnt out. Not just when you hit rock
Patty🌷

Patty🌷

8 likes

Self care isn’t selfish
Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s a necessity. Taking time for yourself restores your energy, nurtures your well-being, and allows you to show up as the best version of yourself for others. Prioritize YOU, because you deserve it. #selfcareideas #healthandwellness
Han Elicegui

Han Elicegui

0 likes

It’s not selfish to care about yourself ❤️🔥🔥❤️
#selfcare #selflovetips #motivation #pronceofdallas
Princeofdallas

Princeofdallas

1 like

Self care isn’t selfish mama!!
Self-Care Isn’t Selfish, Mama! For the longest time, I felt guilty taking time for myself. Between diaper changes, school drop-offs, therapy sessions, and just life, I used to think that working out was a luxury I couldn’t afford. But I’ve learned that it’s actually essential. Movement is my
Valeria

Valeria

5 likes

It's not selfish to love yourself,take care of you
It's not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and make your happiness a priority. Living luxurious is necessary. #selfcare #selflove #happiness #siswemadeit #blackwomentiktok #luxurylifestyle #softgirlera luxury black women lifestyle rich black women aesthet
Sis wemade it

Sis wemade it

9 likes

Self care isn’t selfish
Full-time working mom of 3 here 👋🏼 I’ve learned self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. 💖 Building my online biz is what’s giving me time freedom so self-care becomes a lifestyle, not an afterthought 🫶🏻 ✨ 2 tips that keep me grounded: 1️⃣ Non-negotiables (10 min for YOU) 2️⃣ Boundaries (
growwitherika24

growwitherika24

4 likes

Self-Love Isn’t Selfish- How to Finally PUT YOU 🥇✨
Real talk: When was the last time you put yourself first—without feeling guilty? Society has this weird way of making self-love sound selfish, but the truth is, it’s the opposite. Loving yourself is the foundation for everything else—your relationships, your happiness, and your energy. So, let’
SOULDUST FAE✨🪽

SOULDUST FAE✨🪽

15 likes

Self-care isn’t selfish 🌸✨
Self-Care Sundays are more than just pampering; they’re about reclaiming your energy, setting boundaries, and reconnecting with your truest self. We often spend our weeks pouring into others, but what about us? It’s time to prioritize YOU. I’ll be sharing my favorite rituals that fuel my body, mind
RaeOfTheVoid

RaeOfTheVoid

13 likes

🔆It’s never selfish to take care of yourself🔆
If you want to take a vacation and treat yourself that’s fine. Going to get your hair and nails done that’s fine. Going to get a haircut that’s fine. Wanting to do better for yourself is perfectly fine. No matter what anyone tells you. The people who are telling you not to don’t want to see you
Shadow Ch1ld

Shadow Ch1ld

5 likes

A self-care 'To Do' list on an orange background, featuring 'take baby steps', 'drink water', and 'be nice to myself', promoting healing and recovery. Includes Lemon8 branding.
✨ Self-Care is Not Selfish—It’s Necessary! ✨
Breaking free from narcissistic abuse is exhausting—mentally, emotionally, and physically. You’ve spent so much time putting others first, but now, it’s your turn. 💛 🌿 Rest when you're tired. 💧 Drink water & nourish your body. 💖 Set boundaries without guilt. 🧘‍♀️ Breathe deeply—your h
adiosnarcissist

adiosnarcissist

10 likes

Self-Care Isn’t Selfish, it’s Your Superpower!

Hey Gorgeous! I just published a new blog post exploring Ancient Secrets of Femininity to enhance your self-care rituals! Check it out! link in bio 😘
TheMysticMogul

TheMysticMogul

2 likes

self-care isn’t selfish 🌸✨
my go to skin care routine — when it comes to my face, LESS IS MORE 💛 i love this routine, it keeps my skin glowing during all seasons. 🛍Brand: Good Molecules & PanOxyl #skincaregirly #goodmolecules #glowuptips #lemon8challenge #beautyfinds
𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐬✨

𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐬✨

346 likes

See more