Take Care

You work hard, do charity work, do your homework because you work and go to school, take care of your kids, significant others, parents, etc. Then it’s your turn………Well, guess what, you are doing it wrong.
There is a reason why during the safety briefing on a plane they tell you “put your oxygen mask on first before assisting others.” You are no go to those around you if you are not at your best. Being at your best requires self care. And here is a tip: self care is not selfish. Putting others first, and not taking care of you is not selfless either.
Self care means different things to different people. From taking quiet time, meditating, having a routine for your bath/shower, massage, full blown spa day or just taking a walk in nature, your self care needs to be something that:

• Is meaningful to you: Do what makes you feel good, relax and center yourself. Don’t do something because it’s popular or others are saying it’s what you should do.
• Makes you feel positive feelings: Joy, happiness, relaxation, balance.
• Gets you ready for the next thing: This means that there is a purpose to your activity. And yes, just being by yourself, doing quiet time does have purpose, just be clear about what it is.
• Plan it out: Being intentional helps to set your brain to know it's time for you.
• Tell those around you: People can’t respect your space or boundaries if they do not know where they are. I’m not saying they need to buy in. I’m saying, set your intention, speak your intention so others know to respect your time, then take time to self care. If they don’t approve, that’s their issue. You need to do you.

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So, what’s your self care plan? Mine is spelled out on what my husband and I call the “family calendar”. I have yoga, intention setting session and dinner with friends all in the next 2 weeks.