Put Your Own Mask On Before Assisting Others

Life can lose its oxygen too.

It seems as though, in recent months, I've forgotten this (a bit hypocritical considering my theme for 2022 is prioritizing myself).

But it's true, no one is of any help to anyone else if they aren't operating at their best selves. Making sure one's own needs take priority is something that I think has taken a back burner for... well... a long f-ing while.

Whether it's re-reading my favorite book, singing in my car, or simply drinking a glass of wine and watching out a window (or building Harry Potter Legos, but try and keep that one a secret), there are several things that help me relax. But, I don't always put my full heart into them. By that, I seem to take a breath from the metaphorical oxygen tank but not actually apply the face mask, a band-aid rather than a cure, if you will.

I've realized this only worsens the emotional, mental, and physical burnout. Saying "no" to plans or company isn't a bad thing, especially when "yes's" becomes more draining than it should be. "Yes's" turn me into quite the resentful person, one that isn't all that productive and definitely isn't happy.

Taking a time-out from life's routine and expectations need to happen much more frequently than we allow. Because, sometime's doing what's right means loving and putting yourself first.

So, take a shot, put that fucking oxygen mask on and enjoy the ride.