I’ve always seen myself as a “people pleaser” in the sense that I try to do things that will make others happy even if it’s not making me happy. I worry about what others think of me. I do things like; pretending to agree with everything, always apologizing even if I didn’t do anything wrong, and trying to conform to the people around me. I’ve known that I have done these things for a while, but I realized I was in this rut when I found my mind racing all the time and it wasn’t even about my problems. It was about other people’s. I know this isn’t a healthy way of living and that’s why in 2018 my goal is to put my emotions and needs before others. I have to recognize my feelings and let my personality shine through as it is.
It can be so hard to take the time out of your day to focus on yourself and yourself only. Especially as a college student when you’re trying to balance classes, a GPA, a social life and getting a decent amount of sleep every night. There’s 24 hours in each day and often we leave out the thing that is most important, which is “me time”. Sometimes you have to be selfish and do something because it makes you happy. Whether that is going to the gym for an hour to clear your head or sitting on your bed watching Netflix, it’s a necessary step to self-care. I’m writing this article in hopes that I’m not alone on this one as well as trying to help myself stick to my goal.
I know it’s not going to be easy to keep this up all year and hopefully long term, so here are some tiny things you can do to help your soul. It’s important to check in with your emotions often. Get to know yourself without judgment. Spend at least 15 minutes a day in the sun (especially during the winter months). Use mindful meditation to check in with your body and mind. Drink an extra glass of water each day. Unplug all your devices for an hour. I’m determined to make 2018 the year for self-care and I hope whoever is reading this, chooses to do so as well.
HCXO Jess