At some point, we’ve all had this experience. You try to do too much and then you feel overwhelmed and stressed out; or you don't have time for yourself because you're always taking care of others. Maybe you're not getting the sleep or rest that you need, which is causing your health to suffer; and on top of all that, you feel resentful towards the people who are asking too much of you. Well, I'm here to tell you that it's time to stop trying to be Superwoman! You can't do it all, and that's okay. Here are a few reasons why it's important to take care of yourself first and foremost.
Putting others first can have a negative impact on your health
When we put others first, sometimes we forget about our own needs. We stay up late to finish a project for a colleague or skip lunch to attend a friend's appointment; but constantly neglecting our own well-being can have negative consequences on our health. Being exposed to sleep deprivation or exhaustion over a long period of time can put a strain on your mental and physical health. Give yourself the first part of your day to take care of your needs and your health will thank you for it.
Putting yourself first helps others.
Contrary to popular belief, putting yourself first isn't selfish. In fact, it's quite the opposite! When you're well-rested and feeling good about yourself, you're able to be more present for the people in your life who need you. You're also less likely to snap at them or take your frustrations out on them when you're taking care of yourself first. This doesn't mean neglecting your responsibilities in favor of relaxation, but rather finding a healthy balance between self-care and taking care of others. Don't let guilt fool you into believing that taking some time for yourself is wrong. It's the best way to ensure that you are able to bring your full self to any situation.
So, the next time you find yourself trying to do too much, remember that it's okay to say "no." Take some time for yourself and relax…you deserve it! Your health and well-being should always be a top priority. Superwoman is fictional for a reason; in theory, it sounds great, but in reality, it’s not practical. Keep in mind when you are making a list of people to help, that you put your name is at the top. Remember, find a healthy balance that includes your needs too!
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