It’s unfortunate, but many people have difficulty putting themselves first. We all need to be able to do this from time to time, without guilt or pushback from those around us. It’s simple: If we want to function at our best, we sometimes need to prioritize rest or healthy coping strategies over tasks. And we need to invest our energy wisely. Considering our own needs as we make choices is essential to protect ourselves from burnout.
Nourish Mind, Body and Soul
We all need to focus on mind, body and soul.
How we do that differs from person to person – but our need to prioritize all three aspects of our being is completely universal.
If you’re feeling unchallenged, choose an activity or two that stimulates your mind. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, find a hobby or outlet that sooths you and brings you calm.
We are the only ones who understand what we may have neglected over time, and what we need to do to remedy any deficiencies.
No one else can tell us how to do it, and no one else can make these a priority. We need to be assertive in doing what is necessary to feel more whole and at peace.
As we begin to make a more conscious effort to nurture each of these elements, we begin to discover that we are slowly achieving a more balanced outlook and lifestyle.
We also may find that we are becoming more resilient to all of the things that life throws our way.
Nourishing ourselves starts with you saying no to people and not overcommitting.
And saying yes to things that feel constructive, healthy and fulfilling.
Organize Your Time
Do what you can to organize your schedule to ensure you meet all your work and home priorities while still preserving time for activities that are essential to your personal well-being.
Consider adopting simple daily rituals.
For some of us, a to-do list is all we need. Others need a more disciplined approach that includes regular planning sessions to gain more control and establish more structure in the days or week ahead.
Put pen to paper and map things out so you are sure to find time for enjoyment and fulfillment along with all the chores and chaos.
Ask for Help If You Need It!
If you feel as though your life is spiraling out of control, one of the best things to do is to ask for help.
Make sure you reach out and don’t be afraid to speak to someone about what you are experiencing.
Depending on what you have going on in your life, it may be that you have to seek mental health treatment.
Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. If anything, it shows that you are strong enough to admit you are challenged and recognize that we all need support to be our best.
Ditch the Guilt!
Lastly, ditch the guilt.
You can’t be everything to everyone, and if you try, you will soon find that you end up struggling more.
Consciously work to build a circle of trust that includes people who you can count on. And excludes those who don’t support your efforts to achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Thank you as always for reading.
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Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Her career includes 20+ years as a private sector corporate executive and 15 years (and counting) as a consultant and coach. The common thread through her professional life has been a commitment to compassionate leadership, including leading and mentoring current and future leaders, and women from all walks of life. KindCompassCoach articles are backed by research and include facts and advice from a wide variety of experts. Joan is a member of the International Organization of Life Coaches, serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me.
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