best apps to reach your self-care goals

Kind of wild that we even survived 2021 and that I keep thinking "last year" was 2019, but here we are. I've always been a fan of new beginnings, whether symbolic or literal. They're a great time for reflecting on what you've been doing and what you want to keep or change. This year, I've decided that my intention for the year is to connect. With others and with myself. What better way to do that than with self-care? Remember, self-care may look totally different for you than it does for anyone else. Honestly, it will probably look different for you at different points in your life, year, or even day. Don't get frustrated with yourself as it ebbs and flows. Instead, take that as a moment to check in and see what you need.

I'm the kind of person who needs quite a bit of support to take care of myself, whether it's support from others or myself. I've found that apps are one of my favorite ways to support myself, track my progress, and reflect. Here are some of my favorite apps and how I use them to take care of myself. Keep in mind that many of these have paid options, but I currently use the free version of all of them. I've linked both the iOS and Android versions (if available) in case you want to check them out!

If you want to create a new routine... try Routinery (iOS/Android) Using the Routinery app, you're able to set up your ideal routines and include how much time you want to spend on each step. If you're finding you're spending too much time on your phone before bed or dread waking up, this is a great place to start. Make sure you add steps you're already doing and add on 1-2 steps at a time so you don't overwhelm yourself.

If you want to build new habits... try Streaks (iOS) The colorful appearance of the Streaks app and how easy it is to use makes it an app you'll actually want to use every day. Set up your goals or habits, edit the frequency, and then simply hold down to mark it as accomplished. It automatically counts your streaks so you'll be able to quickly see how far you've come! Remember, we all have down days. If you miss a day or two, that's okay. Just pick back up when you're able.

If you want to journal... try Day One (iOS/Android) There are tons of apps for journaling, but I've always come back to Day One. I think it's simple and easy to use with just enough features. I prefer journaling with a pen and paper, but I'm working on spending less and wasting less when it comes to office supplies.

If you want to make more memories...  try 1 Second Everyday (iOS/Android) I've seen this app shared a few years now and I've been dying to try it. Each day, you record or upload a 1 second video and at the end of the year, you have a recap of your year. I love how easy it is to do and how it encourages people to include the mundane and the big life events. They all matter. They all deserve your recognition.

If you want to track your moods... try Sanvello (iOS/Android) Sanvello has tons of amazing qualities. Coping skills, discussions, meditations, etc., but I use it for the mood tracking capabilities. I like that it's so easy to use and I can be really specific about what I'm feeling and what's going on.

If you want to think more positively... try I Am (iOS/Android) If you don't try any other apps, at least try I Am. I've recommended it to several people and they've noticed a difference in how they think about themselves and the world, as well as how they feel. I noticed a difference in maybe a couple days and I look forward to getting a new affirmation every hour or so.

If you want to improve your mindfulness and meditation... try Insight Timer (iOS/Android) If you're new to mindfulness or meditation, I can't recommend Insight Timer enough. It has thousands and thousands of free guided meditations, courses, and soundscapes. You can search by time or by topic. Start off with a 1 minute guided meditation and see how you like it! Remember, mindfulness and meditation are skills and you'll get better with practice.

If you want to read more... try Goodreads (iOS/Android) Reading is one of my favorite self-care activities, whether I'm reading a horror novel or a personal development book. I'm making more effort this year to read more and track what I've been reading to help me keep it up. I like that I can add friends and see what they're reading to cheer them on and find new books to read.

There you have it! Some of the self-care apps I use on a daily or almost daily basis. If you've tried these or any other apps you enjoy, let me know! I'm on my phone a lot anyways, so might as well be productive while I'm on there.