I wrote this in my journal a few months ago. It was the only entry I made that day.
Paula, it’s okay to take care of yourself first sometimes.
Then I took a deep breath. It’s okay. To take care of yourself. First. Sometimes I forget. Sometimes it isn’t even on my radar. I mean, I am the person with two ‘to do’ lists plus a calendar and a journal. Well, two journals. Sometimes my personal care takes the backseat to stuff happening and the needs of others.
I’ve learned that one of the best ways to take care of myself is to say ‘no’ without feeling guilty. Not a mean ‘no’ or a sneering ‘no’. Just no, thank you. Not a long explanation or rationalization or some sort of excuse. Just, no, not right now.
This has taken a bit of practice. It requires conscious decision making. It also requires that I know what I want and who I want to be. Only then can I be satisfied with the outcome…no guilt, shame or blame.
I might revise this journal entry to say…Paula, it’s okay to take care of yourself first. That’s the best chance you have of showing up as love.
Yes!
Paula
