Empathic? Servant-hearted? Healer traits? Neglecting Self-Care?
Time and discipline for purposeful self-care are more often than not set on a back burner for folks that are built with an extra nurturing gene. We are ready to step in on a moments notice and help others in need. Many of us have chosen the healing arts or service as our career path.
Helping those we are close to, or encounter in life is truly satisfying. There is nothing quite as gratifying as serving one another with love and skill. But losing ourself in the process is less than wise.
Often, those of us that God bent this way burn out and end up feeling empty inside. Maybe lost and even a little confused. We live life in a pretty selfless manner – and then we pay the price. Finding the time and discipline to care for ourself is not negotiable if we want to maintain our emotional, spiritual and physical health.
To be our best, to bring our best to the table in every situation, we need to stop thinking self-care is selfish and embrace it as wisdom.
The gifts of compassion, help, and care need to be filled up in ourselves as well as in others. Not recognizing our own need for consideration does not make us selfless – it makes us weaker servants. Time and discipline for self-care may not come naturally to you – but with God’s help, you can change.
Choosing to give yourself the same compassion you bestow on others will help keep you healthy and loving. Learning to know and trust oneself is an essential leg in this journey.
Moreover, we become an example to others – we can’t save anyone (only God can do that). But we can care for His creations (ourselves and others).
“Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
Mark 6:31
Choosing to Embrace Time and Discipline for Self-Care
Blessing others should not take away from allowing others and God to bless us.
- When we feel:
- healed
- safe
- protected
- healthy
- content
- relaxed
We are better at giving to others.
Self-care is not an indulgence. Self-care is a discipline. It requires tough-mindedness, a deep and personal understanding of your priorities, and a respect for both yourself and the people you choose to spend your life with.
Forbes, Tami Forman
We can maintain these aspects of life through caring for ourselves in the same way as we do upkeep on cars, homes, clothes, and other possessions. Time and discipline can happen!
When we first begin to include ourselves in the love and care we give out – it can feel awkward and even wrong. Persevere through these feelings.
Life’s frustrations will become more tolerable, and your joy becomes authentic – you are no longer running on empty.