A Woman’s Work May Never Be Done—But It Can Wait

By: Toni Campbell

It’s the final days of December, and I find myself on a mission: complete every load of laundry in the house. Call it superstition or simply my love for starting fresh, but there’s something deeply satisfying about ushering in the new year with a clean slate. As I tossed the last load into the dryer, I reached out to a dear friend to catch up. To no surprise, she was knee-deep in her own cleaning spree.

We laughed at our parallel lives, and I jokingly remarked, “A woman’s work is never done.” Without missing a beat, she replied, “That’s because we’ve been conditioned to be everything for everyone.” Her words struck a chord, summing up the invisible yet heavy load many women carry. We juggle countless roles—employee, mother, partner, friend—all while trying to keep our homes and lives in order. Yet when it comes to carving out time for ourselves, guilt creeps in, whispering that we’re being selfish or lazy.

But here’s the truth: the very best version of ourselves—the version that loves, nurtures, and leads—can’t thrive without self-care and self-love. Over the past year, I’ve learned the art of prioritizing my well-being, and it’s a practice I encourage every woman to embrace as we step into the new year.

The Myth of the Superwoman

For years, I tried to be the quintessential superwoman. I worked tirelessly, supported my family, maintained a clean home, and rarely complained. But beneath the surface, I was running on empty. It wasn’t until I started prioritizing small acts of self-care—reading in silence, meditating, indulging in regular facials and manicures—that I realized how much I had neglected myself.

At first, even these moments of “me-time” felt rushed. I’d schedule a manicure like it was just another errand, squeezing it in between grocery runs and work meetings. I wasn’t present during the experience, too preoccupied with what I needed to do next. It wasn’t self-care—it was just another task on my never-ending to-do list.

Learning to Savor the Moment

One day, I had an epiphany. Why was I treating moments of joy and relaxation like chores? I made a conscious decision to slow down and truly savor these small pleasures. Sitting in the nail salon, I let myself breathe, feel gratitude for the moment, and enjoy the experience without mentally rushing to the next obligation.

This shift in perspective changed everything. By giving myself permission to pause, I started showing up more fully—not just for myself, but for the people who matter most. I realized that being a great wife, friend, and professional doesn’t mean doing it all; it means being present and whole.

Self-Care Is Not Selfish

If you struggle to put yourself first, let me assure you: self-care is not selfish. It’s an essential part of living a balanced, fulfilling life. Here are some lessons I’ve learned on my journey to self-love and tips to help you make your own well-being a priority:

1. Redefine Productivity

We live in a world that glorifies busyness. But productivity isn’t just about checking things off a list; it’s about creating a life that feels meaningful. Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is rest.

2. Schedule “Me Time” Without Guilt

Whether it’s a yoga class, a coffee date with yourself, or a long bath, treat self-care like any other important appointment. Put it on your calendar and honor it, guilt-free.

3. Learn to Say No

You don’t have to attend every event, bake for every fundraiser, or solve everyone’s problems. Saying no is an act of self-respect that protects your time and energy.

4. Let Go of Perfection

The house doesn’t have to be spotless, the laundry can wait, and dinner doesn’t need to be a five-course masterpiece. Focus on what truly matters and let the rest go.

5. Embrace Small Pleasures

Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate. It can be as simple as sipping your morning coffee in peace, lighting a candle while you read, or taking a walk in nature.

6. Practice Gratitude

Take a moment each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. This simple practice can shift your mindset and help you focus on the positive.

7. Seek Support

You don’t have to do it all alone. Lean on your partner, family, or friends, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Permission to Pause

One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that it’s okay to press pause. The laundry will still be there tomorrow. The world won’t fall apart if you take an hour—or even a day—for yourself. When you prioritize your well-being, you’re not just recharging your own batteries; you’re setting an example for those around you.

As women, we often wear our busyness as a badge of honor. But the truth is, our worth isn’t measured by how much we do for others. It’s measured by how fully we show up—in our relationships, our work, and our lives. And to show up fully, we need to take care of ourselves first.

Stepping Into the New Year

This new year, I challenge you to let go of the myth that a woman’s work is never done. Give yourself permission to delay the endless tasks and instead focus on what fills your cup.

Take a deep breath, pause, and remember: you can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s time to prioritize self-care and self-love—not just for your own sake, but for the people who love and depend on you.

So, as we step into this new chapter, let’s embrace a mantra: A woman’s work may never be done, but it can wait.

Here’s to a year of rest, joy, and unapologetic self-love.