CARING FOR OTHERS is a joy. It is how we show our love. It's how we say "thank you." It's how we make a contribution to the world. Unfortunately, sometimes the joy of caring for other is overshadowed by challenging schedules, non-stop requests, conflicting roles, no personal space and no self-care. Eventually you tell yourself that it is impossible to look after yourself and others too. This feels absolutely true, but it isn't. The fact is, if you don't look after yourself, you won't be able to look after anyone else either. To care for others in a loving and effective way, you simply must care for yourself first.
BE HAPPY EXERCISE: You cannot neglect yourself and find happiness. Today your assignment is to find time to have a meeting with yourself. Give yourself at least 15 minutes to check in with you, to put yourself first. This is not selfish of you-it is essential for everyone. Tune in to your well-being. Ask yourself: "What are my needs right now?," "What messages is my body giving me?," "How does my heart feel?," and "What is my wisdom telling me?" If you're feeling overwhelmed, maybe it's time for you to ask for help. Life gets better when you treat yourself better.
Caring Today Magazine
Winter 2010
Dr. Robert Holden
No comments:
Post a Comment