…If you feel “burnout” setting in, if you feel demoralized and exhausted, it is best for the sake of everyone, to withdraw and restore yourself.
Dalai Lama
The announcement came on:
In the event of decompression, an oxygen mask will automatically appear in front of you in most commercial aircraft. To start the flow of oxygen, pull the mask towards you. Place it firmly over your nose and mouth, secure the elastic band behind your head, and breathe normally. Although the bag does not inflate, oxygen is flowing to the mask. If you are traveling with a child or someone who requires assistance, secure your mask first, and then help the other person.
Secure your mask first, and then help the other person.
On a flight today, I listened to the words I had heard thousands of times before. And, I realized that I was running out of air. Throughout the holiday season, I have been busy making sure the house was decorated, presents were bought (including the ones to be given to me), meals were planned, days were organized, details, projects and loose ends were wrapped up at work, and a myriad of other activities.
And, I forgot to put on my oxygen mask. As a result, I feel burned out and exhausted rather than relaxed and joyful following this holiday season.
The flight attendant unknowingly reminded me that there is nothing selfish about practicing self-care and taking time for myself – even putting my needs ahead of others.
She was pretty clear about the dangers.
If I don’t put on my oxygen mask first, I will indeed run out of air, and ultimately I won’t be able to help anyone else.
Period.
#selfcare #prioritizeme #caregiving #secureyourmaskfirst
The Playlist: Walking my way through love, loss and renewal 