It is common for us all to become so busy at some points in our lives to the point where we start finding it difficult to manage all our responsibilities at work, school, home, family, friends, and our relationships. It is easy during these periods for self care to sink to the bottom of the list of priorities. We often take care of everyone and everything else before taking care of ourselves. Then our tank is empty and we might feel exhausted, depleted, resentful, stressed or even depressed. It is extremely important for all of us to move our self care from the bottom of the list to the very top.
Some people feel that making themselves first in their lives is selfish. But the familiar “oxygen mask” analogy is a good illustration of why this is not selfish, but on the contrary, necessary to be able to provide for others in the long run. When the flight attendant tells us that in the event of an emergency we must secure our own oxygen mask before assisting others, the reason is that if we don't take care of our own needs first we will be unable to help anybody else. Taking good care of ourselves is actually the best way to be a healthy resource for our employers, families, and friends.