Why you need to take care of yourself first

[DavideFitbit]

There are many circumstances in which we may put ourselves second, but when we have the chance, it's important to also take care of ourselves. If we ignore our health, it's difficult to be there for family or friends, both mentally and physically.

It doesn’t mean ignoring the needs of others. It more about understanding the interplay between taking care of yourself and others. Working out helps us to be more healthy in general, improves our mood, gives us more energy and prolongs our lives. Focusing on our own health and developing healthy habits can also benefit our family. 

Feel free to share your thoughts about this premise. Let me know what has been your experience. 

[NellyG]

That is a very good point @DavideFitbit . When you are in a bad space it is often very difficult to care for yourself much at all (having been there). But you really can't become content/happy/whole unless you do learn to care for yourself. I have found exercise enormously helpful in my life. I didn't start to exercise for my ,ental well being, but it has been a wonderful side effect!

Thanks for posting this.😊

[DavideFitbit]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts, @NellyG! I had a similar experience, I didn't start to exercise for my mental health, but it definitely has helped a lot, and because of this, I've been able to be there for family and friends as a positive figure. 😀

[emili]

it follows the rationale of why on an airplane they say to put your mask on first before helping someone else. you can't help anyone or take care of anyone properly if you are gasping for air (metaphorically). The idea is when you bring your whole self to a situation you are more clear vision, more capable and more alert to do whatever needs doing. Something basic like grocery shopping can be an awful task if you are tired, hungry or just grumpy. Driving kids around is another. Everything bothers you- the kids, the radio, other drivers, the temperature in the car. But, if you go into these activities rested and nourished- it doesn't seem as awful. 

[DavideFitbit]

That's a great way of explaining it, @emili! 

Yes, the way we feel ourselves definitely has an impact on others, so if we take care of ourselves, we're also taking take of our loved ones in a way. 😁

[ThumbedCat]

I worked out from 2015-2018. But hard workouts. I burnt out. 2019 and 2020 were sporadic at best. I used to think 'if I don't have a lot of work (I work at home)', or 'if I wake up early enough'. But those were excuses. I got real in late 2020. Stopped prioritizing other people. Now, I sleep in every day and work out 6 days a week no matter what, mixing hard workouts and easier ones. The work can wait. It works for me.

[DavideFitbit]

It's great to see this worked for you, @ThumbedCat! This used to happen to be me too, I used to prioritize other people too often and would leave myself for last, but I don't do that anymore and have more time to dedicate to reaching my goals. 😎