Caring for ourselves is not selfishness. It is the simple understanding that only a healthy tree can give of itself and serve others. When we nourish ourselves, we are best suited to nurture others. However, sometimes when we think about ourselves, we are misunderstood as being selfish and self-centred.
There are times we need time for ourselves. It does not mean we are distancing ourselves from others and don’t enjoy their company anymore. Nor does it mean that we are uncaring. Time for ourselves helps us reflect, review, and refresh ourselves, making us more available and effective in our relationships. Taking personal time off is not being selfish.
There are times we speak about what we are doing. It is not the expression of ego and self-centredness, but the sharing of our ideas and experiences to gain different external perspectives, and also an opportunity to spark off a thought in others. Talking about what we do is not being self-centred.
There are things that we really look forward to which others may not enjoy doing. We recognise that when we live our lives true to what comes to us naturally, our mind is calm and we are in a happy state. We can give sustained happiness when we ourselves are happy. Doing things for ourselves to make us happy is not being selfish.
Some relationships we carry are special in their own way and with some people we bond best one on one. It does not mean that we don’t want to include others, it is just recognising that different relationships need to be nurtured differently. Not including others all the time in some of our relationships is not being selfish.
What use will we be to anyone if we are physically restricted, emotionally broken, and spiritually impoverished? A happy and healthy being can take better care of others.
When we give ourselves the best, to be able to give our best and make a difference in the lives of others, we will realise the simple truth – caring for ourselves is not selfishness, it is our highest responsibility.
(Picture-Tributary of the Godavari river)
Agree. It’s the human value of Self-Love which is so important to ones own and others wellbeing.