For as long as I can remember, I’ve believed that serving others was simply what you did. You showed up, you helped out, you said yes more often than no, and you didn’t make a fuss about your own needs. Caring for myself was something I could get to later, once everyone else was settled. The trouble with this mindset is that there’s often no time for later.
Serving others is deeply meaningful to me. It gives me purpose, connection, and a sense that my life matters beyond myself. Whether it’s helping out family, friends or community, being helpful can be fulfilling. But constant service without self-care will eventually be depleting.
Caring for myself isn’t selfish, it’s sustaining. When I’m rested and attentive to my own well-being, I show up more fully for others. I listen better. I’m more patient. I’m less reactive. I serve from a place of abundance rather than obligation.
I have to admit though, it’s been a struggle for me to find the balance.