Why Taking Care of Yourself is the Most Productive Thing You Can Do

Let's take a moment to talk about being selfish, self-indulgent, and filling your own cup first. These words or phrases might make you uncomfortable. The term "selfish" can be particularly hard to swallow.

The discomfort often stems from our interpretation of these words, influenced by how we were raised to understand their meanings.

We all know the saying, "You cannot pour from an empty cup," but do we really *know* it? For a long time, this concept eluded me, and I am still learning its importance.

You need to take care of yourself first so that you can THEN:

• Be productive
• Care for others
• Show up fully as yourself
• Be there for your family
• Mother well and with intention
• Be a good friend

If you don't take care of yourself first, you're doing a disservice to your family, friends, business, boss, and the world.

Filling everyone else's cup first puts you in survival mode—a place we all know how to live in but where no one thrives. Trust me, I've been there.

Moving from Survival Mode to Thriving Mode

1. Prioritize Yourself: Put yourself at the top of your to-do list. Create space in your day or week just for you, dedicated to self-care and replenishment.
2. Daily Self-Care: Incorporate daily habits that nurture your well-being. Whether it's a morning meditation, a short walk, or enjoying a cup of matcha, these small acts can make a big difference.
3. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary. A no to one this is a yes somewhere else. Protecting your time and energy is crucial for maintaining your well-being.
4. Ask for Help: Don't hesitate to ask for support from friends, family, or colleagues. It's okay to lean on others when needed.
5. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly assess your self-care practices and adjust them as needed to ensure they continue to serve you.

Doesn’t everyone deserve the best of you? And don't you deserve the best of you? No one gets the best of you if you're always filling everyone else’s cups and leaving yours empty.

The Benefits of Prioritizing Self-Care

1. Enhanced Productivity: When well-rested and cared for, you can be more efficient and effective in your tasks.
2. Better Relationships: Taking care of yourself allows you to show up more fully and authentically for others.
3. Improved Health: Regular self-care can lead to better physical and mental health, reducing stress and increasing overall well-being.
4. Greater Fulfillment: Prioritizing self-care helps you live a more balanced and fulfilling life, where you can pursue your passions and interests.

Taking care of yourself is the most productive thing you can do today.

Self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. By prioritizing your well-being, you set yourself up to thrive and give your best to the world. So, take that deep breath, set aside time for yourself, and remember that taking care of yourself is not just productive—it's necessary.