As I sit down to write today, I realize it has been months since I last took the time to do this. Over the past few weekends, I often told myself, “If you really want this project to take off, you need to be doing something—anything to get it moving.” Yet, somehow, I convinced myself that it could wait. I could always return to it when I am less [fill in the blank].
The last few weeks, or maybe at this point months, have been a blur. I can’t even say what they have been, but they HAVE BEEN. Starting a new integration is always exciting, but it comes with a lot of work and extensive communication with others. I’ve realized that I thrive on being busy and having intentions for my day, although it doesn’t always play out as I anticipated.
Along with work, there have been personal distractions that have seeped into my day-to-day life, requiring even more communication. It has been overwhelming. What continues to stand out to me is my ability to help others through various aspects of their lives—whether it’s assisting someone with an integration into a larger organization or supporting them through major personal changes. Do I get it right all the time? Absolutely not, but I try.
However, amidst all this helping, I’ve begun to contemplate which parts of my life and needs have been put on the back burner. The truth is, a significant portion of what I know I should be doing—taking care of myself and advancing my project—has been neglected. As caregivers, it’s easy to lose ourselves in the depths of giving and prioritizing the needs of others. There’s always a give-and-take in life, work, and joy.
I aim to continue learning how to balance giving to others while not forgetting to care for myself. It’s a struggle that I have yet to master. I believe the first step is acknowledging that we need care too; we are no different from those we support. This realization is often easier said than done for me. I find it difficult to let people in. I prefer to keep my struggles close to me and present a certain image to others—someone they can count on.
Yet, perhaps the lesson is that showing vulnerability and allowing others to see our more intimate struggles is the very point. The journey toward balance and self-care is ongoing, but I’m committed to learning and growing along the way.
Embracing Self-Care During the Holidays
As we find ourselves in the midst of the holiday season, it’s essential to remember the importance of self-care, even as we focus on doing for others. We cannot give our all to those around us if we are not taking care of ourselves—emotionally, financially, and otherwise.
In the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we often forget to consider our own needs. However, making ourselves a priority is a challenge we must embrace. So, take that walk, open up to a trusted loved one, and offer yourself the same love and care that you so freely give to others.
With Thanksgiving around the corner, I reflect on the incredible people I am fortunate enough to interact with, support, and receive support from in return. This year, I’m especially thankful for myself—for starting this project and taking steps toward my own goals and happiness.
It’s okay to extend gratitude to ourselves. Just as we celebrate and appreciate those around us, we must also recognize and honor our own contributions and well-being. This holiday season, let’s remember to give ourselves the same love and thankfulness we readily share with others.