Judith is the author of The Sacred Women
Judith is the author of The Sacred Women
Judith is the author of The Sacred Women
Judith is the author of The Sacred Women
Judith is the author of The Sacred Women
Judith is the author of The Sacred Women
Great advice, Judith. It is a dilemma isn't it? I know I am someone who justifies not taking care of myself "temporarily" because I believe the person I am caring for, or organization I am with is in more need than I am. I believe that I can "take it" because I'm stronger.
Of course, this leads down a road that is not pretty–especially when the caring continues beyond any timeframe I had in mind. It is never easy to practice what we preach. It is a battle I fight every year–living my values of caring for others while at the same time making sure I am getting refreshed and renewed as well.
Whenever I go too far, I always remind myself of the airline instruction: "Put on your own mask first before assisting others." Why do they say that? Because breathing is REALLY important. 🙂 And if we stop breathing we will be no good to help anyone else. I've learned that, for me, finding balance where my needs are being met (not only physical but emotional ones) too is really important.
Thanks for sharing this wisdom, Judith.
And for me part of the challenge is when I think I've finished my "job" and can now get back to "me" only to find a loose end flapping in the breeze or in some cases, wind. A minor piece I can postpone for a few days or even weeks but some times it is a major "end" or there is an external time frame over which I have little to no control. When these events happen, if I've still some balance in my life I can chant "This Too Shall Pass" and move forward.
My number one daily priority is to create balance in my life. How I wish I could report I'm always successful. That I cannot do but I can honestly say I'm far more likely to than a couple of years ago. Reminding myself of the Progress I'm making helps me stay the course. Hmm, can I find a few more cliches?