Written By Julie Paiva, CHHC
Over the past few weeks, I’m sure that you have spent time celebrating the Fourth of July (United States freedom from Great Britain). Also known as Independence Day, freedom and autonomy are celebrated by families across the country with fireworks, barbecues, and parades. Now that July 4th is behind us, let’s focus on celebrating our own personal independence which is likely much needed if y0u have kids out for summer break. So I challenge you to create a day in your life or carve out a little time each day to celebrate yourself.
The first step to reclaiming our personal independence is recognizing that we are worthy of our own time and attention. We often spend so much of our lives focused on others. Remember what you hear the flight attendants say when they do the safety demonstration at the start of a flight, you must apply your oxygen mask first before assisting others. In other words, if you want to take care of your loved ones, excel at your job, be a great friend or serve people in your community, you must make sure you are well cared for and that comes from within.
For a little inspiration, here are some ways to help reclaim your personal independence:
1. Set healthy boundaries.
Respect your yeses and nos. Say yes when you really mean yes and no when you really mean no. When you say no, fully commit without guilt. When you say yes, be fully present in whatever you’re saying yes to.
2. Follow your bliss.
Are you a people pleaser, jumping through hoops to make others happy? Whether it’s family members, coworkers, or spouses, it’s far too easy to neglect your own dreams! Allow yourself to be selfish and follow your highest excitement.
3. Practice self-care.
Regardless of how busy your schedule is or how responsible you are for others, consider carving out some time just for you. Whatever you choose to do, be sure to honor your personal independence with precious you time.
4. Enjoy morning journaling.
Take time to write in the morning before you talk to anyone. When we start the day without taking the time to connect within, it can become a bit of a mixed bag! In other words, we may get swept up into other people’s dramas or priorities rather than staying grounded in our truth. Mornings are a great time to envision, clarify priorities, and generate positive momentum for the day.
Know that you are worth your own time! The better care you take of yourself the more love and energy you can give back to others, your job, hobbies or things that interest you. Create some space in your life for yourself. Celebrate your unique qualities and gifts. Self-care is not selfish it is a sign a self-empowerment.
