Three practical tips for putting YOU first!

When was the last time you checked in with yourself? Sometimes we get so caught up with being the SHEro that we neglect our own needs. We think that by giving away more of our time, energy and attention we are fulfilling our purpose. But, while you're out there trying to save everyone else, your dreams may be slowly slipping away.

It’s time to get back on track. Here are three practical tips for putting YOU first:

Preservation

Protect the wellbeing of your mind, spirit, and body by creating healthy boundaries.

1. Be mindful of your circle of “friends.” Refocus your goals; and forge relationships that encourage and motivate you toward those goals.

2. Say “No” to things that don’t serve your purpose. Don’t let beliefs that you don’t deserve what you want stop you in your tracks.

3. Stop trying to please everybody. Set boundaries…and stick to them!

4. Stop being the SHEro… every time.

5. Be the example. Treat yourself the way you want other people to treat you.

Prioritization

Put yourself first by making time for the things that really matter to you.

1. When making your to-do list for the week, try categorizing your activities. Some easy categories might include: Chores, Exercise, Leisure, and Self-care.

2. Now, take a look at your list. Do you notice any gaps? You might find that you have very few, if any, self-care activities. If so;

3. Rebalance your to-do list by adding (and prioritizing) more self-care activities.

Remember that you are important. Your needs are just as important as anyone else's.

Principles

Practice habitual devotion to the right principles. Without consistent practice, we easily fall back into old patterns.

1. When you set boundaries, be sure to respect and follow them. That doesn’t mean beat yourself up if you miss a self-care day. Be gentle with yourself and mindfully get back on track.

2. Expect that anyone who respects you also respects your principles. Communicate your values with others and hold them accountable to respecting those values.

Putting yourself first is about improving your self-respect. Honor your values and act in a way that makes you feel respected. Validate your needs and desires. Believe that you are worth it, so that others may also know your worth. Stop chasing other people’s dreams for your life, and build the life you want to live.

For more on this topic, check out 4 Stages of Self-Awareness, This 4-week virtual course is designed to help you reclaim your power, align with your purpose, and live a life you’re proud of: fearless, free, and fulfilled.

-Melissa 🦋