Put Your Oxygen Mask on First
By Donna Schilder, PCC, Life & Business Coach
When you fly on an airplane, the flight attendant instructs you to put your oxygen mask on first, before helping others. Why is this an important rule for ensuring survival? Because if you run out of oxygen, you can’t help anyone else with their oxygen mask.
This is an important metaphor for those of you who run around taking care of everything and everyone else except yourself.
If you don’t take care of yourself, you can experience burnout, stress, fatigue, reduced mental effectiveness, health problems, anxiety, frustration, inability to sleep, (and even death). Are you experiencing any of these symptoms?
It’s time to let go of the guilt and the excuses, and put your oxygen mask first by:
- Getting enough rest
- Exercising regularly
- Eating right
- Having your physicals regularly
- Going to the doctor when you need treatment
- Spending time every day on a renewal activity
- Sit quietly at least 10 minutes
- Listen to uplifting music
- Read an inspiring book
- Write in your journal
- Write a list of what you are grateful for
- Cutting down your stress with laughter
- Read the newspaper comics
- Buy a joke of the day calendar
- Watch a funny T.V. show (I like to watch Ellen dance through her talkshow introduction myself. I can’t help but smile.)
Remember, it isn’t selfish to take care of yourself, it’s necessary!
See also Reducing Stress by Eliminating Tolerations - Part 1
Coaching really works! Call now for a free consultation! (562)434-7822.
