Have you ever noticed how cats instinctively prioritize their well-being?

When it comes to self-care, cats are experts. Their priorities are very clear – they’re not about making others happy or catering to anyone else’s needs. Their focus is on their own well-being first, and only then do they show up for others. Cats seem to follow the “put your oxygen mask on before helping others” principle instinctively. 

After years of fostering and watching kittens grow up, I finally adopted one of my own. As I’ve been observing my kitten adjust to her new environment, I’ve gleaned a thing or two that we mere humans could benefit from adopting.  

This Week’s Habit: Learn to live like a cat

There are a few simple rules cats follow in order to thrive.

Rule 1: Sleep comes first

No point in pulling all-nighters to finish a homework assignment. Cats don’t compromise on sleep– they know that they’ll be at peak performance after a restorative nap. Your reflexes and mental acuity are best when you’re well-rested, and you’ll complete what you set your mind to more efficiently than if you’re trying to power through on little sleep.

Also, cats are efficient machines: the more they sleep, the less they need to compensate with added calories (and work to obtain those calories). They’ve mastered the balance of food + sleep which helps them maintain a sleek, agile figure and optimal performance. 

Rule 2: Food comes second – but in a Predictable Way

Have you noticed how domesticated cats know exactly when they’re supposed to be fed? At 6 p.m., my cat knows that her wet food is imminent – she shows her excitement by prancing around the kitchen. If I’m late, she’ll meow insistently.

Like we’ve talked about before, having set meal times creates structure and intentionality. Cats thrive in routine and so can we. Even in the wild, cats hunt at dusk and dawn when prey is more vulnerable.

Predictability helps cats thrive, by providing a sense of security and that can have similarly positive benefits for us humans. 

Rule 3: Turn work into play

Cats are masters of play. They turn everyday objects into toys – Amazon boxes, wrapping paper, stray elastic bands. Even hunting for food is a game for them. They often don’t go for the kill right away, instead enjoying the process of chasing the mouse around.

When you’re faced with a tough assignment, try to approach it playfully. Think of how you can make it as enjoyable as possible.

Use a favorite pen. Gamify a boring meeting by playing “meeting bingo”. Enjoy the process.

And if the fun runs out, go in for the kill and finish your task swiftly.

Rule 4: Be curious

Cats are always getting into things because they’re curious. Their adventurous nature brings excitement – and often laughs – into our lives.

When life starts feeling dull, or you’re getting bored, try and adopt a cat’s curiosity.

For example, when working on a project, try to learn as much as you can from it. Ask inquisitive questions. Experiment. Explore. Try doing something completely new. Often, learning a new skill or understanding something better makes the process more engaging and enjoyable. 

Rule 5: Communicate your needs

If cats aren’t getting what they need to thrive – sleep, food, play – they will make sure you know.  Case in point: I usually feed my cat prior to making my dinner. One evening I forgot, and as soon as I started preparing my dinner, she started meowing at me insistently. I was only 30 minutes late, but she noticed – and told me so I could address it.

If something isn’t right in your life, speak up. Others can’t course-correct if they don’t know how you feel.

Rule 6: Care for your surroundings… and yourself

 Cats are naturally neat. They prefer their bathroom area to be separate from where they eat, and they groom themselves regularly.

When your environment is tidy and you care for your physical well-being, you feel better – and you’re better prepared to face the world. Reducing physical clutter also reduces mental clutter  – helping you take on challenges with more clarity and confidence.

---

Closing Thought:

This week, take one small step to prioritize your well-being like a cat. Put yourself first and remember:  being your best self and showing up for others starts with showing up for yourself.  

Intentionally Yours,

IE.