Oct 07 2006
Why You Should Put Yourself First
I may have mentioned that I travel for my job. I have eaten hundreds of pretzels and peanuts by the tiny bagful.
I may not have the flight safety instructions memorized, but what I do recall is the portion where you’re told to put on your oxygen mask before assisting others.
At first, this may seem very selfish. We’ve all heard the phrase “women and children first!” when it comes to rescuing people.
For many of you, your first thought in an emergency is, “How can I assist?”
When someone you care about is going through difficulties, you ask, “How can I help out?”
In an emergency as well as life, the best way to help others it to help yourself FIRST.
Why? Because you will be more capable of caring for others. You’re not going to be that helpful if you’re the one who’s passing out.
Some benefits of putting yourself first:
- If you love yourself, you will love others more selflessly.
- If you take care of your body, you will have more energy to help others.
- If you take care of your emotional state, you will give of yourself more freely.
When you are taking care of someone else, either by giving emotional support or physical care, remember to watch out for your needs.
Signs that you may need some “Me Time”:
- You’re listless, you feel “blah”
- You’re irritable, jumpy.
- You’re anxious.
- You begin to resent the person you’re caring for, that their needs are endless.
- You feel that you can’t escape.
- You may not say it, but you think, “WHAT NOW?” when they contact you.
The longer you stay in this state of listlessness, anxiousness and irritability, the worse you’ll get. You may even become depressed.
Then you’ll be the one needing help.
It’s great to be able to help your friends and family. It’s fantastic that you are willing to do so.
Just remember: Take care of yourself before assisting others.
Everyone will be better off.