Why is it that we deny ourselves some very simple pleasures in life that would actually be beneficial if we allowed ourselves to take part in them? I think that for many of us, the urge to put others needs ahead of our own is a testament to our ability to truly and selflessly love the other people in our lives. But, does that really serve us (and those we love) as well as we think it does?

Probably not. As much as we all (myself most definitely included) feel the need to give, give, give, we probably would all be better able to give to others if we took some time and actually gave ourselves permission to take care of our own sanity and mental health first.

Why do we need to be prompted to be good to ourselves? We collectively understand the concept that we “can’t pour from an empty cup.” We even encourage each other with those very words. We can see the need in our friends and colleagues, but we don’t look inwardly toward our selves.

As this year comes to a close, I want you (and me!) to give yourself permission to take care of yourself a bit more. Give yourself time to rest, to try new things, to learn a new skill or two (or four!), to read more, to hug more, to be more present in the moment and more calm in your own spirit.