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Health and Wellness

Why Self-Care Is So Important

"Helping others is a passion I have, but I need to understand that I have to be selfish sometimes."

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Why Self-Care Is So Important
Mackenzie Combs

Everyone is made up of flaws. Human beings make mistakes, whether we like to admit it or not. Perfection is one of those concepts that likes to be thrown around. Yes, one can obtain a perfect score on a test, but no one can be perfect in everything that they do. People tend to be hard on themselves because they expect so much. Society is constantly trying to show us how to improve whether that be with education, physical image, morals, etc.

I, like some people, am never satisfied with myself. I am continuously trying to improve in every way. Sometimes that does mean comparing myself to others. Society has brainwashed us into competing with everyone else. Sometimes we get so caught up, that we forget to love ourselves. I know that as a person who loves being involved, I tend to spread myself too thin. I am constantly putting overs above myself, because I want to make a difference in the world. I sign up for way too many activities. It is so hard being a person who wants to be a part of everything. I am a people pleaser and I love being there for people when they need it the most, but sometimes it is hard to find time. The most important life lesson that college has thought me this far is that before someone can take care of others, one must learn how to take care of themselves.

Stress is inevitable. For some that is how they function, but for others it can shut them down. Sometimes when people get overwhelmed, it is important for them to relax and make time for themselves. Yes, getting assignments, work, working out, practices, classes, etc are vital, and they should be made a priority.

In college, I am a part of several organizations, and I find myself struggling to gain that motivation that I once had. I am constantly on the go and my mind races a million miles a minute. If I give myself an hour to paint, read, draw, or just hang on with my friends I feel better about the day. Giving your mind and body a break from stress is vital to one’s well-being.

I have a wonderful support system at home, and at college. My family and friends can put me in check if they think I am starting to become too anxious. Unfortunately, stress can cause sickness. I have had the trouble with making myself sick because I am constantly putting others, along with organizations before myself.

Helping others is a passion I have, but I need to understand that I have to be selfish sometimes. I am able to better myself by just taking a little time each and every day to relax. I find it more enjoyable to go through the day as well as remember why I started doing that event in the first place. I challenge all of you reading this to make time for yourself, but stay on track with other aspects of your life. It’s okay not to be involved in everything, but you should constantly remember why you are doing what you do.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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