It's All About You

Sometimes it’s about your work, your co-workers or your boss. Often it’s about your family, being a good parent, child or sibling. Other times, it’s about other obligations and relationships – friends, church, social activities. But to paraphrase an old Janet Jackson song, “What have you done for you lately?” If you can’t be good to yourself, it won’t be long before you won’t be good for anyone and anything else either.

Normally, when we talk about self care, the focus is on the physical: eating right, exercising, getting enough rest or it could be about pampering yourself with bubble baths or massages or manicure (all still very physical).

All of those things are important but self care is about so much more. It can be as easy as A-B-C!

Advocacy. You are your own best advocate. Only you know what you want, what you need and what truly matters to you, so speak up! State your needs. Do not assume that people know what you want.

Boundaries. Part of advocating yourself is setting clear boundaries. Most people don’t set boundaries because they are afraid of what others might say, think or do. Hurt feelings normally pass and you will be surprised how many people won’t be hurt by your decisions. If it’s just too hard to say no, counter with an offer that works best for you.

Connection. There are a number of ways to connect and you know kind of connection you need: spiritual, social, familial. Human beings are social beings. We need to connect to others and we need to connect to ourselves (spiritually and emotionally). Connections enrich our lives!