Let’s face it – all of us have a long list of people depending on us. We’ve got spouses and kids, employees and co-workers, aging parents and friends in need. I’ll admit that some days it seems like everybody want a piece of me! That‘s when it’s time to step back and take a breath and ask myself – “What am I doing to take care of me?”
It’s pretty simple – to be the best YOU and the best to others, you’ve got to LOVE and take care of yourself first and foremost. In working with people on this very subject, I am always surprised by how many people think this means being selfish. Recently someone said to me, “I could never tell my seven year old that I can’t help him with his homework just because I want to go to Yoga class!” And do you know what I said to that? Oh yes you can – and should! I promise your seven year old will get dad or an older sibling to help him – or you can do it when you get home! Or heaven forbid – he’ll not get his homework done and he’ll learn about consequences! You’ve got to make yourself a priority at some point. I’m not talking about being mean or neglectful. I’m talking about doing the things you need every day to make sure that YOU are healthy and mentally ready to do all those things for others.
YOU are just as important as anyone else. And those things that you want and need are just as valid as anyone else’s wants and needs. Self-LOVE means treating yourself just as kindly as you would anyone else. That may mean that others around you don’t get ‘all’ of you ‘all’ the time AND that’s okay. It’s not being selfish – it’s taking care of YOU! SO this week LOVE yourself just as much as you love those around you. Treat yourself with as much respect and attention as others. This week’s Monday MOJO was a great quote from Lucille Ball, “”LOVE yourself and everything else falls into place.” I believe that! Take care of yourself and then watch the difference in all that surrounds you!
Big LOVE to YOU!
