Putting Yourself First is a Win-Win — Here are 7 Ways to Start Doing It!
Today, I want to talk about something that’s difficult for most of us — putting yourself first.
When was the last time you looked in the mirror? Who do you see? There are billions of people on the planet, but you only see one reflection every time you do.
There is a scenario I would like for you to ponder…
Imagine entering a dark cave. You are left with only one candle and a box full of match sticks. When lighting the candle, it is evident that the light it gives is stronger as you pull it closer. No matter the size of the flame, the brightness would still gracefully radiate even from a meter away.
When you look at this from another perspective, this candle that you are holding in the middle of this cave basically represents love. Lighting the candle with the use of the match sticks theoretically means igniting this love by taking in acts of kindness.
Always keep in mind that like the flame, kindness transcends. Showing kindness is difficult sometimes, but it is a necessity one must master.
If you found it easy to imagine yourself shining warmth for others, I want to raise the bar…how about shining that light for yourself? Can you see the transcendent effect from that?
Putting yourself is a win-win.
I’m going to say that again because it’s SO important — putting yourself first is a win-win.
Growing up, we are fed with the idea of having to always prove something to other people, no matter what the circumstance we are in. The mere idea of prioritizing yourself is usually associated with being selfish.
Some may find the enjoyment of our small wins and joys as being egocentric and narcissistic, but that is not the case!
You can never fill another person’s vessel if you do not have anything to pour. So, remember that YOU deserve the light you shine so bright for others as well.
RELATED | Is it Time for a Lifestyle Inventory?
7 Ways to Start Putting Yourself First
Here are # ways you can begin putting yourself first…because you are worth is:
#1: Set Boundaries & Learn How to Say “NO”
Prioritize your sanity. What you feel is valid and you deserve that peace of mind! It is important to learn how to say “NO,” especially in situations where you feel uncomfortable.
You can establish your own boundaries and also create healthy relationships with other people through this powerful two-letter word.
You can do this politely—and, in fact, in a way that people respect.
#2: Take a Breathe
Resting is not an option; it is a necessity. Do not overwork yourself!
Why is resting a basic need? It is a fundamental factor in success, health, and overall happiness. Always remind yourself that you cannot give anything that you do not have.
The main conflict here is the concept of pleasing people. You are NOT less important than anyone else. You need those five minutes or even that one-day break.
It’s imperative to take care of your mental health. Adequate rest does wonders for your inner healing.
Listen to—and respect—your body.
#3: Keep a Daily Journal
Keeping a journal helps you express and process your thoughts. If you are the type of person who struggles at expressing yourself, keeping a journal is a must!
It will help you gain control over your own emotions and consequently helps you to improve your mental health and your relationships with others.
#4: Practice Daily Affirmations
Practicing daily affirmations is a healthy outlet to remind you of your self-worth.
Take a look in that mirror and practice saying:
- “You are enough.”
- “You are loved.”
- “You matter.”
- “You exist for a reason.”
- “You deserve kindness.”
- “You deserve the good things in the world.”
- “You are brave.”
- …and, so on.
These affirmations have the power to inspire you to act on certain things. They help you refocus and concentrate on your goals in life. They empower you to divert your negative thinking patterns and replace them with positivity. They also strengthen your belief that you are more than worthy and that whatever you’re feeling is valid.
#5: Focus on Your Highest Quality Relationships
Having a good support system and a healthy environment helps ground you.
Through having quality friendships and relationships with people instead of keeping up with a bigger, less connected, circle, you are doing yourself a HUGE favor.
The people you spend your time with influence you, so surround yourself with those people with the purest intentions.
If you are surrounded by people who value self-care and self-love, you are most definitely in the right circle. You deserve more than just the minimum!
This is EXACTLY why I created my private Soulful Fit Club group on Facebook! I want a positive tribe supporting my efforts to be my best, most healthiest, self.
RELATED | 3 Ways Having (and Being) a Beachbody Coach Benefits You
#6: Be Present in the Moment
When our mind constantly goes to the past or the future, we are missing what’s happening NOW…and all the beauty that’s happening right NOW.
You will be surprised how much more positive your perspective will be when you stay present. You will become more content and more grateful with everything that’s surrounding you at the moment.
Meditation and mindful breathing are fabulous tools to bring you back to now.
#7: Find a Hobby
Have you been putting off taking piano lessons? Or taking that art class?
Invest in yourself and your own unique skills! Now is the right time to get started.
Having a hobby redirects your focus. It will very likely help you regain your energy after a day’s work because it brings you joy.
Play is as important as work!
Putting Yourself First One Way at a Time
It may be difficult to practice all of these things all at once. Start with one…and make it a habit. Then, move onto the next one.
Remember that your mental health needs to come before everything else. By not making it a priority, you are not only hurting yourself, but those around you as well.
By taking care of yourself and putting yourself first, you are giving access to a life full of kindness and gentleness in the same way that you would choose to give light to others.
Always be kind to people and to yourself. Putting yourself first is always a win-win. When you are genuinely happy with yourself, the rest will follow.
So, it’s time to look in that mirror and thank yourself for existing! You are loved, you are worthy, and most especially, you matter!
