“Hello, guys! Welcome to my skincare routine!”
This is a familiar greeting you’ll often hear from online content creators. Social media has evolved from a simple communication tool into a space where communities form through shared passions—from fashion and lifestyle to DIY projects and everything in between. In the beauty community, people started sharing their own self-care hacks, skin care routines, and reviews on products and treatments that work and don’t. While I admire their commitment to these routines, I realised that self-care matters beyond trends. And here’s something I’m not gatekeeping: my self-care routine that has played a meaningful role in my own journey to success.
Step 1: Start the day with a grateful mind
As auditors, we live by the principle that “substance over form” is what matters, thus my self-care mantra has always been “take care of the inside first so I can make myself better on the outside.” I prioritise my mental and emotional well-being, which plays a big role in how we carry ourselves and how we face the day’s challenges. One important habit I practice in the morning is starting the day with the mindset that I’m beginning from scratch, providing me the perspective to acknowledge the resources that I have. It grounds me in gratitude, reminding me of all the things I have to be thankful for and inspiring me to give my best as I move forward through the day.
Step 2: Get moving
After a moment of meditation and self-motivation, I begin my 15-minute physical workout. As I got older, I learned the importance of physical activity the hard way. I had a condition where I lost the natural curve of my neck due to improper posture when using a laptop and mobile phone. I also had to be mindful of what I eat and made sure I maintain a healthy weight as weight gain causes hormonal imbalance in my body. My workout routine is just composed of low-impact exercises, but I make sure that it is deliberate and consistent as our bodies are designed for regular movement. Physical movement is my “meditation in motion” and helps support my emotional and mental well-being.
Step 3: Hydrate!
Working full-time and juggling my duties as a mom and a wife, I do not have an intricate skin care routine (unfortunately) but let’s acknowledge that we still have to maintain our physical appearance as it is a critical component of a holistic self-care. And I found just the perfect thing that works for me anytime of the day: water. I make sure I drink it more than any other coloured beverage. Consistent hydration keeps my skin moisturised and slows down the appearance of fine lines, making me feel like I'm just 22! (as what I’m usually mistaken for) I believe that when you really take care of yourself inside, it manifests outside.
Step 4: A me-time is a must
As a mom of two and an Advisory Services partner, having some time alone is a luxury. So, when I get the chance, I make sure that I savor every minute of it. This happens usually during shower time. It’s the one moment in my day when I can be alone with my thoughts, reflecting on the past days' successes and failures, understanding the things that I’ve said and done, and thinking about how I might handle things differently and better next time. Me-time helps me preserve my personal identity beyond all the roles that I am juggling.
I also make it a point to go on solo trips and spend time with my girlfriends, who have always been part of my support system. Solo trips help me get to know myself better. As dynamic human beings who are consistently growing and developing, we should be able to understand the changes that are happening within us. Catching up with friends provides me with a safe space; it’s where we share life updates, motherhood tips, and just about anything under the sun. It makes me appreciate the uniqueness of everyone and reflecting also on how much I've grown as an individual.
Step 5: Sleep, sleep, sleep
One important part of self-care is discipline, and this is something I’ve learned early in life. As a young student, I’ve already set a certain time for studying and resting, making sure that I don’t push myself to the point of burnout. I’ve carried that habit until now, ensuring I get enough sleep despite my duties at work and at home.
I’m a firm believer that the hours you spend resting should be equal to the hours you spend working. Establishing that discipline early on in my life really paid off—today, I’m able to keep up with my young sons’ energies, serve my clients well, and contribute meaningfully at work.
That’s it for my self-care routine! While self-care is often portrayed on social media as a luxury or trend, featuring high-end products, tools, and services from well-known brands, let’s not forget that self-care is a life-long discipline, one that strengthens and sustains us from within so we can power through every role we play. No matter how many steps we take in our routines, these are vital to our success. It allows us to show up fully, not just for our families and our careers but for ourselves.
And to every woman striving toward leadership, juggling responsibilities or simply trying to keep up with life’s demands, remember this: prioritising your well-being is not selfish and not a weakness. In fact, it’s a strength—strength to lift yourself up so you can lift others too. Success requires us to take care of ourselves so we can rise with purpose. Like the saying goes: “You can’t fill something from an empty cup.” So, make sure yours is full first and only then can you pour generously and meaningfully into the lives you’re meant to impact.
As published in The Manila Times, dated 11 March 2026
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