You might have noticed that self-care can be considered a negative or selfish thing by some people in your life. Maybe you might even feel a little resistance while trying to incorporate new self-care routines. You “should” be putting everyone before yourself, right? Self-care is more of a reward for working hard than something that is vital to your health, right? NO! That simply is not true. Self-care isn’t actually selfish. It benefits you AND everyone else around you.

Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask First

You have probably have heard this before, but it’s a great analogy and needs to be repeated. When you get on a plane one of the first things they tell you to do in the event of an incident is to put your oxygen mask on BEFORE you assist other people. Not because it’s selfish, but because it’s logical. If you are having a hard time breathing, you won’t be able to help anyone else.

In Your Daily Life

This same theory can be incorporated in your everyday life. If you are burned-out or unhappy, you won’t be a good influence or energy for the people around you. You won’t be as productive or as positive. By simply putting yourself first you can easily change your productivity and relationships with colleagues, friends, and family. Everyone benefits in the end if they can all get to their oxygen masks easily.

You’ll Know Yourself Better

A good self-care routine also allows you to truly discover yourself. Knowing what you enjoy that makes you happy, or understanding your passion and purpose in life benefits the people around you too. Your loved ones should get to experience the best you that there is. The relaxed, self-confident and powerful person you are. Less negativity and resentment towards others allows for stronger and more meaningful relationships to flourish. How awesome is that?

Don’t Stop!

There may be a few people in your life that will see your self-care activities as selfish, but don’t let that stop you. Instead, educate them. Maybe they are just as overwhelmed as you are and they don’t understand the importance of self-care. More than likely they will agree with you and maybe even add it to their schedule. If they don’t understand it, there is no point in stressing about what they say. Don’t let anyone stop you from taking care of yourself. Your health, happiness, and life matter more than ruffling a few feathers.