First Focus on Taking Care of Yourself

If you want to truly be able to take care of your family, your organization, or any other set of relationships in your life, you must first focus on taking care of yourself.  (Please note that as I am writing this, I am holding up a mirror, as this is one area of my life, I struggle the most.)  I have found in my interactions with others, that women struggle with this issue the more often than men.

Think of every time you’ve boarded an airplane.  You’ve probably memorized the flight attendant’s pre-departure speech by now.

“If needed, oxygen masks will be released overhead. To start the flow of oxygen, reach up and pull the mask toward you, fully extending the plastic tubing. Place the mask over your nose and mouth and slip the elastic band over your head. To tighten the fit, pull the tab on each side of the mask. The plastic bag does not need to inflate when oxygen is flowing. Be sure to secure your own mask before assisting others.”

In other words, you can’t effectively lead or help others if you’re down.  Beyond health concerns, feeling less-than-optimal also leads to increased illness, impaired productivity, and decreased engagement.  Simply – you are no good to those around you if you aren’t taking care of yourself. 

Self care can take on many different forms and be required at various intervals.  The key is to make sure it happens routinely, as you need it, to keep yourself fresh and ready to engage the world around you.

Wishing you the best as you take your next steps toward having a Professional Edge.