As I write this message at the end of another very busy week, I am reflecting on the importance of taking care of yourself. There are often times when we tend to put the health and well-being of others ahead of ourselves as we strive to get things done. While this is well intended, I have learned over the years that this is not a good practice. If you don’t take care of yourself, no one else will, and eventually you will get to a place where you feel run-down, worn out or overwhelmed. When you get there, it is difficult to offer help or support to others.
Experts suggest we sometime neglect to take care of ourselves because it can be hard to make healthy changes and also because it can sometimes be associated with being selfish to put yourself first. However, if we ignore ourselves and our needs, it can take a heavy toll on our well-being.
How you take care of yourself looks different for everyone; it is as unique and individual as you are. What works for one person might be stressful for someone else. What makes you feel calm and relaxed? Whether it is taking a long walk, meditating, time at the gym, or setting aside “me” time every day, the important thing is that you figure out what it looks like for you. If you don’t take care of yourself, it is hard to take care of others and those that are depending on you.
As we head into a very busy fall at Bethany, I encourage you to think about this. What can you do for you? You all play an important role in the organization and your health and well-being is critical. After all, “you can’t pour from an empty cup”.
As always, I welcome any ideas or suggestions you may have. Please send them to me at nancy.hughes@bethanyseniors.com.
Regards,
Nancy
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