Why It’s Not Selfish to Take Care of Yourself: Everyone Benefits!

A little AHA moment came during my pre-flight safety ritual on a return journey from Ireland. You know the routine: exits are here, here, and here; your seat cushion is a flotation device (excellent!); stay seated until the captain turns off the seatbelt sign, etc. 

The instructions regarding the drop-down emergency oxygen masks got my attention in a new way. Our flight attendant reminded us that if others around us (children, for instance) need help with their masks, put on your mask FIRST, then help them. 

Why?