Taking Care of Yourself Isn't Selfish

One of the biggest misconceptions people have is that taking care of themselves is selfish.

Many people spend their days taking care of everyone else. They care for spouses, children, parents, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. They give their time, energy, attention, and resources to the people around them.

While there is nothing wrong with helping others, there is a problem when you constantly place yourself at the bottom of the list.

Sooner or later, you begin running on empty.

You become tired.

You become stressed.

You become overwhelmed.

You begin to lose the physical, mental, and emotional energy needed to care for anyone, including yourself.

Think about the instructions given on an airplane before takeoff.

Flight attendants always tell passengers that if there is an emergency and the oxygen masks drop, you should put your own mask on first before helping others.

Why?

Because if you lose consciousness, you won't be able to help anyone else.

The same principle applies in everyday life.

If your health is failing, your energy is gone, your stress is overwhelming, and your body is breaking down, it becomes much harder to be there for the people who depend on you.

Taking care of yourself is not selfish.

It is self-preservation.

It is recognizing that your health matters too.

It means getting enough sleep.

It means making time to move your body.

It means choosing foods that support your health.

It means setting healthy boundaries when necessary.

It means allowing yourself time to recover, recharge, and breathe.

Many people feel guilty when they spend time on themselves.

The reality is that investing in your health is one of the greatest gifts you can give the people you love.

When you feel better, you have more energy.

When you have more energy, you can give more.

When you are healthier, stronger, and more balanced, everyone around you benefits.

You cannot pour from an empty cup.

You cannot help others effectively if you neglect yourself completely.

Taking care of yourself first is not about putting others below you.

It is about making sure you are healthy enough to continue serving the people who matter most.

A Coach's Thought to Carry With YOU

You are not being selfish by taking care of yourself. Just like the oxygen mask on an airplane, sometimes the best way to help others is to make sure you are healthy enough to keep showing up for them. Your health matters too.

Have a healthy and blessed day,

Coach Rich