Most children are raised to be kind and respectful of others. They are taught to consider others’ feelings and help those in need. But when it comes to taking care of themselves, many people lack the ability to prioritize their own needs.
To some, the concept of self-care is as foreign as the language and customs of faraway lands. The idea of putting their own needs first feels somehow wrong or even selfish.
The good news is that it’s never too late to treat yourself as you treat others, to put yourself first in a healthy, energizing way. Here are some ways you can rewire your brain so it becomes increasingly easier to do so, thereby recharging your life.
Learn to Say No
Being a caring and compassionate person is terrific, but sacrificing yourself by constantly saying ” yes ” to other people’s needs will deplete your energy. Learning to set boundaries and say no is not only your right; it’s your responsibility. Try to start saying no more often, free of guilt.
Ask for Help
When you’ve taken on the role of helping others, it can feel uncomfortable asking for help when you need it. After all, you’re the one people go to when in need.
Remember that all of these people who come to you for help feel no shame or discomfort in asking for it. They need help, they ask for it, and they get it. Try to do the same. As soon as you release the pressure you’ve put on yourself to handle everything alone, you will feel a tremendous weight lifted.
Get to Know Yourself!
Do you know what makes you tick? What do you like and dislike? People wired to neglect their needs don’t typically know themselves very well. Knowing oneself is seen as a luxury they can’t afford.
Self-love and self-care require you to get to know yourself. Take some time to discover what you enjoy. Once you find what pleases you, commit to doing it more often. Having more pleasure in your life will make you a happier person.
Taking these actions will have a tremendous impact on your life. As you get better and better at prioritizing your needs, you will feel happier and more empowered. You will know, deep down, that your own needs matter and that you are worth the effort.
Some people have a tremendously hard time with these exercises because they have low self-esteem. And the longer you have lived with low self-esteem, the harder it is to make positive changes.
In these instances, seeking the guidance of a trained therapist can be incredibly beneficial. He or she can help you work through any childhood trauma and provide tools to manage any anxiety or depression that often accompanies low self-esteem.
Please contact me today if you or a loved one is interested in exploring treatment. I would be happy to explain how I can help.
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