Put Yourself First for a More Joyful and Fulfilling Life

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Growing up, I was taught that it was selfish to put yourself first. So, I went about the next thirty years of my life putting everyone and everything else ahead of my own needs to avoid being viewed as selfish.

I never really gave much thought to this way of being, until several years ago when I hit a wall. I was burned out, physically sick with chronic migraines, and feeling completely lost with absolutely no energy. I had a thriving veterinary practice, two beautiful children, a husband, many four-legged children, and a beautiful home – but still I was completely stuck. I couldn’t make sense of it, but I felt like there was something wrong with me. Why couldn’t I sustain my energy and drive? Why did I always feel so tired, unfulfilled, and unhappy? Why can’t I do it all?

As I started asking myself these questions, my personal growth journey began. I educated myself through reading and attending workshops and retreats, and I slowly began to learn the importance of honoring and valuing myself. I learned that taking care of me wasn’t selfish, and it doesn’t mean I have a lack of regard for others. Rather, it means that I love myself enough to honor my needs.

I know that a lot of women struggle with this concept, so I wanted to break down what it looks like when you put yourself last, and what it looks like when you put yourself first. When you put yourself last on the priority list, and instead focus on everyone and everything else, you:

  1. Disconnect from your core values.
  2. Make choices that are based on the needs and desires of others.
  3. Make others your priority and neglect your own health and needs.
  4. Get pulled in many different directions and feel disjointed instead of centered.
  5. Feel overwhelmed, like your life is controlling you rather than the other way around.
  6. Lose sight of your priorities.
  7. Lose touch with who you are and what your purpose is.
  8. Lose your ability to express yourself and be creative.

Conversely, when you choose to honor yourself and put your needs first, everything changes for the better. You’re able to:

  1. Lead a healthier life, by incorporating exercise, sleep, and nutrition into your daily routine.
  2. Live by your core values.
  3. Understand your innate gifts and talents and incorporate them into your personal and professional life. This creates more joy and ease, and ensures that you’re doing what you love.
  4. Realize that you have the power to create a life that is in alignment with your values.
  5. Reconnect with your higher self.
  6. Become happier and more fulfilled because you’re living your truth.

Wouldn’t you rather be the woman who puts herself first? When we choose to honor ourselves, we have so much more to give to others and the quality of our lives increase. Choose to put yourself first and take care of your needs, and I guarantee everything will begin to improve.