If you've ever been on an airplane, you've probably zoned out during the pre-flight safety instructions. At this point in my life, I've been on so many planes that I can nearly recite their speech word for word. I'll admit, however, that most of the time I zone out, like the rest of the people on the plane and am lost in thought as to the drink/snack choice I'll be offered and what movie I'm planning on watching on my adventure. The one line, however, which makes me bolt upright in my seat every time, is when the flight attendant grabs that yellow little mask and notes that "in case of a change in air pressure, masks will be released. Place your mask on before assisting those around you."

Help yourself before assisting others? Something I personally feel I have been brainwashed to believe, is selfish.

Society drills into our brains at an early age that we are to do for others and put them and their needs before our own. When somebody asks us a favor, we are to nod politely and without hesitation, do what we can to help those in need.

But what about us? What about our needs?

I don't know about you, but I'm the type of person who has an incredibly difficult time saying no. I am a self-proclaimed people pleaser and always strive to make other people smile. As great as it is to help others and do everything in my power to please others, I've noticed that in doing for others, I tend to forget about myself.

Helping others, lending support and offering guidance are not a bad thing. I pride myself as countless others do, on doing for others and working to make a positive impact tin the lives of those around us. Why should doing good onto others be brought up as an issue?

It is not an issue nor is it a burden. All I am trying to state is as such: sometimes we need to think about ourselves first rather than putting others in that position.

If someone asks you something or to fulfill a request/favor, ask yourself:

-Is what this person is asking me something I am comfortable doing?

-Is helping someone else or saying yes burdening myself or deterring me from achieving my goals or being happy?

-Am I sacrificing my own needs or desires to fulfill someone else’s?

I am a whole-hearted advocate for putting others first, but at some point we need to draw the line somewhere.

None of us can adequately care for others to the utmost degree unless we take care of ourselves as well as recognize and acknowledge our own wishes and needs.

We are ALL worthy of love, care and recognition.