Self-care has become a buzzword within the last couple of years, with everyone chasing the elusive bliss that is supposedly at the end of the self- care rainbow. Warning: this journal does not help you find the elusive (possibly made-up) bliss.

Self-care is often talked about as if it is a band-aid to a hard day; when in reality, self-care is a way of living that maintains one's ability to face hard days, as well as the ability to identify when additional support may be needed. This type of self-care-based living requires a healthy lifestyle, active and purposeful self-awareness, and a ready-made list of personalized interventions that can serve as a band-aid for the really, really hard days.

While this journal will not magically make the world a safe and care-free place, nor chase away all the clouds that may threaten your happiness, the purpose is to provide a buffer against the hard moments, or rainy days, through both preventative and intervening activities and exercises meant to address the key pieces of burnout (emotional exhaustion, cognitive exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced feelings of personal accomplishment). The hope is for you to find pieces that resonate with you that you can incorporate into your daily routines, allowing self-care to be a regular and meaningful part of your life.