What does it mean to make yourself the priority? Do you take time every day to meditate or practice Qigong? Maybe. How about taking time out to watch a movie that makes you laugh or read a book that makes you cry? Certainly. Or could it be that you shift your ‘must-dos’ to ‘do-laters’ and instead take time to relax with a cup of coffee or take a walk on the beach? Naturally.
Prioritizing yourself means different things to different people, and can even mean different things on different days. No matter what you do, or when or where you do it, take a moment to check in with yourself. What exactly do you need right now? What can help you relieve your stress, rebuild your soul and renew your mind? Whatever that answer is, do it. The other things – and people – can wait.
Many parents – especially new mothers – often say that they can’t do anything for themselves because they are so busy taking care of others. But these are the people who have to take care of themselves first and foremost. They not only care for the people in their care, but also set an example. If you are a mother, father, or other caregiver, ask yourself this question: “Would I want my child to take care of himself the way I take care of myself?” If your answer is no, motivate yourself to change your patterns. Make yourself the priority. Respect yourself, your body and your time, so that those watching learn to respect themselves too.