Life is full of opposites and tensions.
We are pulled in multiple directions and working through tradeoffs.
One tension that often arises is the idea of putting ourselves first.
We care about our family.
Our friends.
Co-workers.
Neighbors.
The list continues.
We want to do things for them.
Listen to their opinions.
Follow their advice.
The Challenge
We can soon find that we have lost ourselves.
We have no time for self-care.
Align with the opinions of those around us.
And take actions that others believe “are right for us”.
However, the people in our life aren’t us.
Their needs and advice don’t consider what we want.
We need to start listening to our inner voice.
The one that guides us on our path.
Discovering our own goals and decisions that fit those goals.
Knowing when we don’t have energy and need to take just a minute for ourselves.
Gaining confidence in our own opinions and choices.
This isn’t about removing the care for others and their ideas.
The goal is to filter their thoughts and needs through your lens.
Act where it makes sense.
Say “thank you” and move on where it doesn’t.
Your Turn
Are you spread too thin doing things for others?
Do you find yourself settling for things because it’s what others think you should do?
What can you do today to put yourself first just once?