Are you "Putting on your own oxygen mask", first?

“I have come to believe that caring for myself is not self-indulgent.
Caring for myself is an act of survival.”
 - Audre Lorde

If you've ever traveled on an airplane you know before every take-off, the flight attendant reviews the safety procedure.

I've traveled enough to be familiar with it and I admit, my eyes kinda glaze over when they’re going through it, but there’s one part of the demonstration that stuck with me for as long as I can remember.

Put on your own oxygen mask before assisting anyone, and that means A-N-Y-O-N-E.

I mean think about it…it does make sense…if you’re struggling, it's more difficult to help someone else.

Self-care is like that oxygen mask…it is necessary for your survival.

Unfortunately, many women run themselves into the ground…putting others ahead of themselves…their kids, their spouse, their work, and so on. Saying “yes” to everyone else and “no” to themselves…until it’s absolutely necessary to put themselves first…and even then many feel guilty about it.

Why?....The reasons vary.


…….But one thing is the same across the board…whether you believe it or not….you are #1 and it’s important you treat yourself as such.

Self-care is deliberately taking care of your mental, emotional and physical health…..and it’s important because these areas of wellness have an impact on other areas of your life…even your finances!

Self-care is an everyday thing…not just a luxury you take advantage of only when you are totally depleted nor is it a “well-earned” reward. 
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Here are some examples of how to practice self-care:

- Develop a regular sleep routine
- Eat healthy meals
- Take breaks
- Use your sick leave
- Develop a regular exercise routine – but listen to your body and allow your exercise to reflect how you feel.
- Do something that brings you a sense of joy
- Repeat positive affirmations
- Share only positive things on your social media
- Define new goals each week
- Allow yourself time to pause

Self-care doesn’t have to cost you money…but if women aren’t taking care of themselves…their actions can end up costing them a heck of a lot more than money….does “burnout” mean anything to you?

You are your #1 responsibility (it doesn’t matter what anyone else says) and to be able to show up 100% in your life…self-care is something that could be considered vital.

If you spread yourself too thin….you will snap…simple as that.

Allow yourself the time to reflect on ways you could easily incorporate self-care into your daily life, write them down, and keep them somewhere visible. It doesn’t have to be anything dramatic or time-consuming. Every week, choose one small self-care routine that you commit to following each day that week....non-negotiable.

Remember.....you ARE worth it! 

I would love to hear from you! Hit reply and let me know which self-care practices you'll be making a part of your daily routine.

Thank you for being part of my community!

Have a totally fantabulous day and let your awesomeness shine!

Until next time.....