How do you balance friendships and self-care?

For me, balance comes with scheduling. I set time for friends on weekends, but weekdays are for work and self-care. This way, I don’t burn out. Friends know my pattern and respect it. A clear boundary makes the relationship healthier.

I used to exhaust myself trying to be available for every friend. Later I learned that self-care must come first. Now, if I need rest, I say no to outings without guilt. True friends understand. Balance means being present for others while protecting your own health and energy.