Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Sometimes You Just Have to Be Selfish

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Every now and then, you're going to have to say no. You're going to need to take a step back and make sure that YOU are okay. When you're a mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend and all around superwoman, people will come to expect things from you. It only becomes a problem when you begin to feel overwhelmed or unhappy.

When's the last time you flew on an airplane? At the beginning of every flight, the flight attendant reminds the able-bodied adults that in the case of an emergency, put your own oxygen mask on FIRST before you assist children and the elderly. Why? Because what good can you do to anyone else if you can't breathe? Are you following me?

Personally, it really bothers me when I disappoint people. I hate to miss out on the important milestones and events of my family and friends. I value my friends and family so much that I feel the best way to show them how much I love them is to be there, spend time, show up. And it hurts me when I can't do that. But guess what? I have to make sure that I'm okay first. Sometimes our loved ones will understand and sometimes they won't. I'm learning to live with that.

I realize that if I'm not careful, I can lose myself while I'm trying to save everyone else. I can't give and give and give and not give unto myself. And neither can you.

In order to be a balanced, productive person, you must be responsible for setting and maintaining your unique boundaries. I encourage you to release the idea that you are selfish or self-engrossed if you choose to do what's best for you. Always preserve your health and spirit the best way you know how and those who truly love you will understand.

5 comments:

Laila @OnlyLaila said...

Every time I read this blog the message is on time! It's refreshing to read these messages.

BestBLeve said...

I agree with Laila. It's as if you both are reading my mind at the moment when I want to hold it all in. So often I feel like I'm guilty for needing a breather, especially as a mom. Thanks for putting it into perspective.

Anonymous said...

OH, how I struggle with this concept. I am beating myself up right now for wanting to say no. Thanks for the post.

QueenB

GG said...

So glad to hear that you all can relate! I think what we write always flows the easiest when we write about we are currently thinking about or going through, you know? This is something I'm dealing with right now so it really helps me get through it when I write about it. I'm so glad it helps you too :)

Ms.Knolls said...

It has always been challenging for me to be selfish, and I have found myself giving and not caring so much about me. Just this week, I have been thinking about how I need to take time out just for me. Thanks GG, this came right on time.

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