Are you close to turning 60 or already in your sixties and still last on your list?

When was the last time taking care of yourself or doing something just for fun made it to the top of your to do list? 

If your answer is a “long time ago” or “I can’t remember” or even “never,” you’re not alone.

From the time we were children, many of us were taught “think of others” and “don’t be selfish.” We may have learned these lessons a little too well.

Most of us spend all the hours of our day taking care of others, completing the to-do list, fulfilling obligations, and doing what we “should” do.

Taking care of ourselves is last on the list – if it’s on the list at all.

 

The truth is this doesn’t work!

If you ignore your own needs long enough you’re likely to become drained, dissatisfied, exhausted, and maybe even resentful.

When you’re not refilling your own personal tank, it becomes increasingly difficult to give to others.

Without recharging you won’t have the energy to be your best self at home or out in the world.

I was vividly and painfully reminded of this when I nearly went down with the ship  last month.

Put Yourself First

Many of my clients come to me with empty tanks.

While they may be searching for their passion, their purpose, or how to make a difference in the world, they often need to start with self-care. Only after refueling and recharging themselves are they fully ready to discover and create their vision for a deeply satisfying future.

Remember how on an airplane you’re told to put the oxygen mask on yourself first and then help others? In the event of an emergency on the plane, you must be both present and alive to assist and truly be of service to others. You must take care of yourself first. The same is true in other aspects of our lives.

If you want to savor your sixties. . . if you want to be a happier person or a  better spouse. . . If you want to be a good employee, manager, business person, or friend . . . If you want to do what you’re called to do, what your purpose in life is . . . whatever it is you want to do with your life, begin with yourself.

When you make choices that nourish you and fill you up, you’ll naturally be more generous with your time, energy, and resources. And you’ll be more able to create a life you love.

This is healthy “selfishness.”

Friday’s blog post will complete this 2-part series with tips for Making the Most of Your “Selfishness.”

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