Take Care of Yourself Holistically
Pay attention to your emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual needs. If your cup is empty emotionally, you must focus on your emotional well-being. You cannot give to others what you do not possess. If you are physically sick, rest and get better. When I tried to work through my illness (which later turned out to be pneumonia), my boss told me, “If you die tomorrow, we’ll replace you. Go home!” Harsh words to a 20-year-old at the time, but a lesson I never forgot. There is no shame or guilt in stepping out of a role so you can focus on your health and get back on track. When you are struggling in one of these areas, find the right program or professional to help you.
Loving Yourself Means Embracing Your Divine Design!
It also means filling your cup first until it runs over so that others can benefit from the overflow. Or, as a flight attendant might say in case of low cabin pressure, “Put on your oxygen mask first to prevent passing out. It is the only way to help those you love or any person in need.” You are no good to others if you are not good to yourself. You must make time to Focus On You, Okay!
Do That Which is
Relevant to You!
Aside from 911 matters and situations that require your attention, God has given you wisdom and discernment to make the choices that are relevant to you and align with your destiny. We all know that life is full of compromises, but they should not deplete your oxygen supply (energy, time, resources, and faith). For example, you can help someone fulfill their dreams, but not at the cost of abandoning yours. You can do activities others enjoy, but not at the expense of never getting to do those things you love. You can offer financial help to someone, but not if it drains your retirement funds. Someone else’s urgency is not always yours. This realization changed my life. Learn to say “Yes” when you can deliver on the need. Learn to say “No” when you deem it appropriate. Those who know you and your character will understand and still love you.
Go On A
Retreat
Being everything to everyone while trying to pursue your dreams can be exhausting. You deserve alone time. Separate from everything and everyone. Turn the cell phone off and leave the computer at home. This is your time of solitude and rest. It may also serve as a time of reflection. It is when you can find peace, experience complete renewal, gain a higher level of self-knowledge, and seek spiritual guidance. You can use this time to read, pray, sleep, hike, or meditate. This is your stress-free time. Take a half day, full day, or week. However much time you need to replenish your oxygen. I take a daily retreat quarterly. It does wonders for my mind, body, and soul.
You can also join one of our upcoming personal retreats
