I take care of myself before taking care of others
The affirmation "I take care of myself before taking care of others" is a reminder that you need to prioritize your own well-being before helping others. It's not selfish to put yourself first, it's necessary. If you don't take care of yourself, you won't be able to take care of others effectively.
Think about it this way: if you're on an airplane and the oxygen masks drop down, you're instructed to put your own mask on before helping others. Why? Because if you don't have oxygen, you won't be able to help anyone else. The same principle applies in life. If you don't take care of yourself, you won't be able to help others to the best of your ability.
Taking care of yourself can mean different things for different people. It could mean getting enough sleep, eating healthy, exercising, meditating, or taking time for yourself to do something you enjoy. Whatever it is, make sure you're doing it regularly.
It's important to remember that taking care of yourself isn't just about physical health. It's also about mental and emotional health. If you're feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, it's okay to take a step back and focus on yourself. You can't pour from an empty cup, so make sure you're filling your own cup first.
When you prioritize your own well-being, you'll be able to show up for others in a more meaningful way. You'll have more energy, more patience, and more compassion. You'll be able to give more because you've taken care of yourself first.
Of course, there will be times when you need to put others first. That's okay too. But make sure it's not at the expense of your own well-being. It's all about finding a balance.