I've personally always struggled with being able to put myself first.
Although some would consider it a good quality, as it is seen selfless, it has always been something that I wasn't to happy about. There is absolutely nothing wrong with putting others first; in some situations it's probably what should be done. However, there are times when I feel that I'm upset because of how I sacrificed my feelings to make others feel OK.
So, since most people wait for times of the year such as a new year, I've decided that with the start of my favorite season, fall, I would bring forth the resolution to focus on myself more, and you should too.
It is important to put yourself first. Ultimately, you should really only worry about your well-being and happiness. Don't feel as if it's selfish. Since most of us are in school and have the deadliest time of year coming up — midterms — it is essential to take care of yourself.
Take some time out of each day for yourself, prepare, start studying, relax.
Your grades are so important, but remember that they don't define you. Before you know it, final season will be upon us and the stress levels will hit an all-time maximum, at least for me. Make sure that you are still taking time for yourself each day.
Don't be afraid to step away from studying for a while to relax, go to the gym or whatever else makes you happy because your happiness is the most important.
Go join a new club that interests you. Doing that will help you meet new people and form long lasting relationships. Surround yourself with everything that empowers you. Most of all, put an end to all toxic relationships. That is genuinely so important, especially for me. Don't let people who are not worth it rule your life, don't let them upset you anymore and don't worry about their acceptance of you anymore.
Also, take some time for yourself before you go diving into another friend group.
Most of all, focus on your health. Go to the gym as much as you can; you'll be surprised with how much stress it relieves. Take on a new fitness class that you never would've thought that you would enjoy. Spoiler alert: spin class is amazing.
Eat better and be happier with yourself.
During fall, make the promise that you will take care of yourself by putting yourself first and focusing only on your personal success and well-being. I recently started having that attitude and I couldn't be happier. I wake up every morning thriving and satisfied with myself and how I'm doing.
You won't be sorry that you did it, and you will be excited that you did when you see how much it pays off.