Since I was young, I have always been a “people pleaser” Friends always came first and in my eyes I felt like that is one of the reasons I was put on this earth; was to be the best friend and #1 cheerleader everybody wanted in their corner. In the last month, I have realized that it is time to put me first. In the beginning, I thought this was a selfish idea, but then I realized how important it is to learn about woman I am becoming. I am going to start spoiling myself just as much as I used to spoil friends. Something I have always enjoyed is journaling, A few days ago, I separated a page in the journal and wrote down ways I can put me first. I am no expert, but I will end this article with a few of my thoughts about how you to can continue living a positive and healthy lifestyle that is rich in self love and putting me (or in this case you) first.
*Starting from least to greatest*
5. Fall in love with yourself before falling in love with anybody else.
Love is a pretty cool thing, but sometimes it can get messy. I strongly believe it is essential to find yourself before finding anybody else (cheesy but true) Maybe this is why I have not truly fallen in love yet and I am 110% okay with that.
4. Spending time alone is okay!
I like spending days where I can put my phone on do not disturb, curl up with a good book, light some candles, and listen to Billy Joel all day. I’ve been told in the past that I’m a “social butterfly” I take this as one of the highest compliments especially because I am planning on a career where having excellent charisma is key, but all butterflies need “me time” here and then because spending time alone is part of finding out who you are.
3. Closet clean out
I love cleaning! There is something about it that is so pleasing. I like to spend a morning doing a “closet purge” I always feel as if my unorganized world shifts from colossal mess to organized is best! So why not reorganize/purge all that excess apparel? Make room for the new season and do something good for your community at the same time. Donate to an organization such as Goodwill or the Salvation Army, so not only do you help yourself, but you are making an impact on others. Recently I have started color coding everything in ROYGBIV colors (I know a little excessive, but it helps!) So turn on some Beyonce and purge out that closet. You will feel like a whole new person.
2. You had me at shopping
That leads me to bring up another favorite activity… Retail therapy! When the funds present themselves, I like to whip out that square of plastic and splurge*. In pastimes, I’ve splurged more on friends than myself, but now I am learning that it is okay to work hard so you can “treat yo self” *I am not encouraging maxing out the credit card*
1. Find your own sanctuary
The place I go to find Zen (sanctuary) is the duck pond at my school, called Dew Drop Pond. Whenever I need some alone time I buy some hot dog buns and go out to feed the ducks, take a few deep breaths in and out, and remind myself of how blessed I am. I encourage finding your own place of Zen and when you find it think about the good in life.
Namaste to all!
-Nat
