Hi everyone, it’s Doll from Doll Can Create and You can too.

Today, I want to talk a little bit about self-care—taking care of myself. You can probably tell from my voice that I’m just a little under the weather, though I’m feeling better than I was. I just wanted to set this up, so it looks okay—there we go.

So, I was watching a YouTube channel by Transformed Homemakers Society, and she was talking about a dopamine menu. I thought, “Okay, I’ve never heard of that before.” So, I jotted down a few things. But what really caught my attention was the idea of mindful rest—not just collapsing into bed from exhaustion, but purposeful napping.

Sometimes, when we are feeling low energy, we beat ourselves up over unfinished tasks. But when you are sick with a cold, self-care must come first, right? A few things from the video stood out to me, and I will try to remember to link it below because I found it useful.

Simple self-care activities like getting fresh air, watering plants, journaling, crafting, listening to music, thrifting, and gardening can make a significant impact. Even small tasks, like watering plants, can bring joy—seeing them soak up water and thrive the next day is a little reward.

Then there are the tasks I tend to put off, like changing the bedding. It takes five minutes, yet I procrastinate. Why? Once it is done, you feel accomplished, and then you can nap without guilt. Laundry is another one—it only takes five to ten minutes to start, yet I hesitate. But once it is going, it’s done, and I can move on to something else (or, again, take a guilt-free rest!).

There is this misconception that slowing down is laziness, or that we don’t deserve rest. But we do. You are important. You matter—to yourself and to others. And as the saying goes, you must fill your own cup first.

So, what am I doing today? Well, I started some laundry and changed two beds—one in the office and one in the bedroom. I went upstairs to feed the cat and water his plants. I even stepped outside for a few minutes to get some fresh air and clear the steps of snow.

Another thing that helps me when I am feeling sick is watching my favorite YouTube channels and listening to motivational speakers—people who have struggled and found a way through. It is a reminder that we all go through tough moments, and sometimes, we need to lean on others for guidance and encouragement.

Of course, if you have followed me for a while, you know I create things. Right now, I’m working on a sock, a sweater, and a hat. My goal is to finish the sock by the end of the month—sooner, if possible. Knitting is mostly what I am doing today. A few days ago, during the storm, I barely managed a couple of rows. Yesterday, I felt better and made more progress. You can only push yourself so far, right?

I am also working on my to-do list (or as I like to call it, my to-done list). Here’s what’s on it:

• Sending out an email [done]

• Taking out the trash and recycling

• Planning videos and social media posts

• Filling Nick’s medication tray

• Looking for a good protein ball recipe

• Continuing with my budgeting

• Time-blocking the week (though, since this is turning into a sick week, I might have to be flexible)

House chores like sweeping, swiffering, and picking up (hopefully, I can delegate some of that to Nick!)

One tool I use is the Eisenhower Matrix, sorting tasks into urgent/important, urgent/not important, things I can delegate, and things that are not important right now. That way, I know what truly needs my attention and what can wait.

But enough about me—what are you doing today? Do you have a plan for the week? I’d love to hear how you organize your tasks. Do you use an online calendar, a bullet journal, or a happy planner? Let me know! For now, I’m going to keep knitting—working on socks, a hat, and a sweater. If you have any questions about any of those projects, just ask! I love helping others with their creative pursuits.

Oh, and my rabbit just decided to make a racket with the water bottle, so I guess that’s my cue to wrap things up!

I hope this post has been inspiring. Even when you’re feeling low, you can find little things to lift your spirit—and remember, a nap is always a good thing.

This is Doll from Doll Can Create and you can too. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share. See you in the next one!

Bye for now!