When it’s time to be selfish
Protecting your energy: we (ARG) work in a high-energy industry that sometimes never sleeps. Using the word ‘selfish’ can often leave a bad taste in people’s mouths. It’s never viewed in a positive light but instead seen as a negative trait of someone’s character which generally discourages us from putting our needs above everyone else’s, which can come at the cost of our own health and happiness.
Sometimes the need to be selfish with your energy and time is vital to remain balanced. It allows you the opportunity to tend to your own needs first and foremost. Given the everyday commitments and responsibilities everyone has, the time comes when boundaries need to be set and we start realigning our priorities.
It’s time to start putting yourself first before you reach a state of burnout and your body intervenes. Listen to your body, pick up on the signs that it’s time to step back, and refocus on what’s important. Time to create balance.
Mental and/or physical fatigue can present itself in a range of different ways, with some of the most common examples below.
- You feel fatigued all the time
- You’re stretched too thin amongst your priorities
- Even the simplest of tasks are overwhelming
- You fall ill regularly
- Your exercise and nutrition are slipping
- You feel inclined to withdraw
- You’re having difficulty concentrating
- You feel increasingly irritable
- Your creativity is stunted
When the warning signs are crying out to you then it’s time to start being selfish. It doesn’t mean avoiding your responsibilities or being horrible to the people around you, it means it’s time to be communicating to work colleagues, partners, and family members that you need to take a break. You need to make a deal to nurture your physical and mental health before it gets to the point of no return.
Fill your cup with activities you enjoy. Reading a book, walking your dog, sitting on a beach, or a drive to the country for lunch. You need to slow down, be present in the moment, and recuperate. Practice some self-care which can differentiate between people, for some it might be getting a massage, stretching, deep breathing, and some relaxing meditation music to calm your mind or for others it might be going for a run, listening to some loud music or surrounding yourself with loved ones.
Clarify why you are choosing mindfulness. Never see it as a chore or an obligation. It’s an amazing investment in yourself! Always remember that ‘you’ should be your greatest motivator as to the why you need to look after yourself and make yourself a ‘top shelf spirit’.
Mental and/or physical fatigued often becomes more visible towards the end of the year as your body starts to crave a moment to stop, rest and reflect. This is your moment. It doesn’t mean giving up for the year, but taking a moment to stop and recognize how you’re feeling and what steps you can put in place to get you to the finish line (aka end of the year).
Claire Morrison is the National Business Manager at ARG. We are a property partner to many finance and investment strategists throughout the country.
