Putting Yourself First
This is a hard one for a lot of people — me included.
Most of us here are caregivers. We’re the givers, not the takers. And I think it’s safe to say many of you give and give and give until there isn’t much left for yourself. That’s usually what brings us here in the first place. You’re ready to start making yourself important to yourself. Am I right? Because that’s exactly why I started this journey too.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with being a giving person — I would never say that. But sometimes we give so much of ourselves that we get lost in the process, and that’s not okay. You should matter to yourself just as much as the people you care for. Honestly? You should come first more than half the time.
When you first begin a self-care journey, it can feel selfish and unfamiliar. Saying no is hard — especially when you’re used to being the one everyone depends on. Putting your mental, physical, and emotional well-being first doesn’t come naturally at first. It’s uncomfortable in the beginning, gets easier in the middle, and eventually it works on autopilot.
At first, it feels awkward because it’s new. There’s often a fear of rejection wrapped up in saying no — that worry of disappointing someone or being misunderstood. But wow… when you actually do it, it’s empowering. It feels like a big, warm hug from yourself. You can feel it physically when you intentionally choose yourself and honor your time and energy.
The vision you have for your life will require boundaries — boundaries that don’t always need explanations. It will require self-trust, even when things feel unclear, emotionally foggy, or uncertain. There will be seasons of healing that require rest, and those seasons deserve to be honored without guilt.
Let growth happen naturally. You don’t have to force it. Just stay mindful and aware of what you need as you move forward, and make a promise to yourself that you will be one of your top priorities. When you take care of yourself first, you may be surprised by how much more you’re able to give to others — from a place of fullness instead of depletion. Making yourself a priority slowly elevates every area of your life.
There is an art to juggling responsibilities and emotions, and while it takes practice, there’s a beautiful sense of peace that comes with it. Let go of the idea that perfect balance exists. Balance isn’t rigid — it’s responsive. It’s learning to adjust, shift, and meet yourself where you are.
Rewiring your autopilot feels awkward at first. But like anything new, it gets easier with time. Eventually, it becomes natural — and that’s a goal worth keeping close. You are allowed to move at your own pace.
If this resonated and you feel called to reflect a little deeper, here are some journal prompts for you. Pick one, use them all, or follow the ones that pull at you. This is your journey.
What feels unclear for me right now, and how can I respond with compassion?
Where do I need to nourish myself instead of pushing?
What boundaries am I being asked to honor today?
What does balance look like right now — not ideally?
