The Best Piece of Chicken: A Rebellious Act of Self-Care

Indulging in self-care is more than just pampering yourself with spa days or long baths. Instead, it's about recognizing the importance of prioritizing personal needs and desires. In the context of self-care, even seemingly small acts can have a significant impact on your mental health and well-being.

One such act that gets overlooked is the simple act of taking the best piece of chicken during a meal. Choosing the juiciest, most succulent piece of chicken for yourself is not just about satisfying hunger—it's a declaration of self-worth and an acknowledgement of deserving life's pleasures. Don’t believe me? Think about it: In a world where selflessness is often praised, especially in motherhood, who is going to meet your needs if not you?

When it comes to getting needs met, many of us fall into a scarcity mentality, which presumes you must settle for less in order for someone else to get what they need. We normalize and often glorify selflessness, so much so that prioritizing your needs can feel taboo. By reframing the act of taking something for yourself as a rebellion against the idea that self-care is inherently selfish, we’re encouraged to reassess our worth and values. Taking the best piece of chicken is a subtle yet powerful reminder of this concept. This is why it's crucial to recognize that prioritizing your own needs is not only necessary, but can help you to reclaim agency over your well-being and happiness.

In Therapist in your EAR, I share a story about taking the best piece of chicken during a family meal. I will often ask my clients; what’s your version of the best piece of chicken? We discuss and explore their version of their best piece of chicken. Their visions of prioritizing their own needs and desires are inspiring and endless. Yet without permission, this still feels like a struggle.

Give yourself permission. There is an abundance of joy and fulfillment available, and everyone deserves their fair share. Ultimately, taking the best piece of chicken is about listening to inner desires, acknowledging preferences, and unapologetically embracing what brings you joy. The next time you have the opportunity to take the juiciest piece of chicken—whatever that may be— remember it's an act of self-care and self-love so take it.