The Selfless Act of Self-Care
It’s important to remember that you’re the only constant in your life. You’ll be with yourself 24/7, for every moment moving forward. This is why it’s essential to prioritise your own needs and wants. Society often teaches us that self-care is selfish, but have you ever considered that neglecting your own needs could be true selfishness? When you’re fulfilled and content, those around you will also benefit. You’ll radiate positivity and kindness, making you a joy to be around. Think of the safety briefing on an aeroplane: you’re instructed to put on your own oxygen mask before helping others in the event of an emergency. By taking care of yourself first, you’ll have the strength and ability to help others more effectively.
As humans, we often have an innate desire to help others, but it’s important to remember that we must prioritise our own well-being before we can effectively aid our entourage. By doing this, we can show up fully for ourselves and for those around us, leading to greater well-being and compassion in the world.
The Cost of Not Taking Care of You
Not taking care of our own needs and pushing ourselves to the limits or sacrificing our own requirements for the sake of others can lead to serious consequences. While this mindset might seem selfless, it can easily trigger burnout, exhaustion, and even resentment. Neglecting our own happiness can also impact our relationships with others.
The Benefits of Prioritising What’s Good For You
On the other hand, prioritising our own needs can have numerous benefits. When we care for ourselves, we have more energy, motivation, and resilience. We’re better able to handle stress, cope with challenges, and bounce back from setbacks. This, in turn, allows us to be more present and attentive leading to deeper connections and stronger support networks.
Ensuring that we attend to our own needs is not a selfish act – in fact, it’s one of the most selfless things we can do. When we prioritise what we want and need in life, we’re able to make a positive impact on everything and everyone around us. We’re setting an example that inspires others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that can lead to greater well-being for everyone.
