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? 

Because if you can’t breathe, you may fall out before you’ve adequately helped them or even helped yourself.

It’s a perfect illustration of a mom's life. Everyone around us—our kids, partners, and older parents—depends on us for a thousand things daily. We need healthy bodies, clear minds, and nourished souls to meet our families' needs. 

Many moms don’t take the time each day to exercise, to have a time of reset or renewal, or to invest in friendships that “fill their cup.” 

They feel guilty focusing on themselves, even for a brief interlude. 

But is it really selfish if it makes you a better, more balanced mom? Caring for yourself makes sense for you and your family. 

Here are four reasons you need to take care of yourself:

You will hit the wall someday - I hit a few walls! 

Putting others first is noble and acceptable much of the time, but it can’t be all the time. If you constantly prioritize caring for others over your own health and wellness, you will eventually hit the wall. 

For some women, it’s in a matter of months after bringing the first baby home. For others, it’s a slow build-up that finally erupts in a midlife crisis of discontentment. Moms are rarely at their physical, emotional, or spiritual best when this happens, and no one benefits.

It’s not just self-preservation; it’s teaching.

I’ve taught young kids for 20 years and am a Mother.

Do you want your children to know how to lead balanced lives and care for themselves? Do you want them to take time to learn that it is good to look after their own minds and bodies, invest in their own growth, and cultivate meaningful relationships? Then, you must model it for them. Children learn far more about how to “do life” from watching us do it ourselves than from anything we say.

Moderation is the key.

Can a mom go too far in the “taking care of myself because it’s important” mindset? Absolutely. But if you are reading this, you are not one of those moms! You are striving for balance with a healthy dash of self-care. 

One of the best New Year's resolutions ( and most successful) was to book one tithing each month that filled my cup. 

I booked a massage, lunch with friends, a haircut, a few hours of retail therapy, coffee and cake, and a hike. I always ensured that it was guilt-free and that there was little chance of interruption ( apart from an emergency). 12 Cups of Self-Love with zero impact on my family.

It was THE BEST NEW YEARS RESOLTUTION EVER! 

So, what fills your cup? 

Do you have 12 days out of 365 for you? That is moderate!!!

Balanced moms are nicer people.

Moms who are physically and emotionally healthy are more positive, patient, and kinder. Aren’t those personality traits you’d like to exhibit with your family? Trust me, when your family finds out which activity—whether it’s your massage or a run—turns you into a “nice mommy,” they’ll push you out the door to do it! 

Research suggests that planning a holiday can significantly boost happiness, with people experiencing increased joy up to eight weeks before their trip. The anticipation of a vacation provides a positive mental boost, sometimes more than the holiday itself. This highlights the value of having something to look forward to in maintaining overall well-being. 

Is it time to book a holiday too?! 

If you are a woman who feels that she has tried all the simple things and needs an advanced approach, I have the answer.

Zenyth: Back to Brilliance Group Coaching Programme. 

You can find out more from me here! 

I want to know more:

https://calendly.com/thebrightlifecoaching/discovery-call-all-programs

Much love,

Claire x