Choosing Yourself Isn’t Selfish

Dear readers,

For so long, many of us have been taught to put others first. Family, friends, coworkers, even strangers—we try to carry everyone’s burdens, meet every expectation, and give our all. While generosity of heart is beautiful, sometimes we forget that our own hearts need care too.

Taking Care of Yourself Isn’t Selfish

Putting yourself first doesn’t mean you stop loving or caring for others. It means recognizing your worth, setting healthy boundaries, and honoring your own needs in ways that allow you to thrive—so you can show up fully and effectively for those who depend on you.

Sometimes choosing yourself looks like saying “no” to something that drains you. Other times, it’s giving yourself permission to rest, reflect, and nurture your own dreams. It’s about balance, not selfishness.

My Personal Struggle

This is something I’m learning in my own life. I often find myself so busy showing up for others that I skip meals, cancel workouts, postpone doctor’s appointments, or even skip the much-needed pampering that keeps me grounded. It’s a cycle—if I don’t take care of myself, I compromise my health and my ability to really care for anyone else.

We’ve all been there—putting others first to the point where we neglect ourselves, sometimes out of guilt, sometimes out of habit. And while showing up for others is noble, it only works if we are well enough to do it.

A Spiritual Reminder

The Bible reminds us that our body, mind, and spirit are sacred: “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” (1 Corinthians 6:19)

Caring for yourself—nourishing, resting, and protecting this temple—gives you the strength, clarity, and resilience to care for the people who depend on you. Taking care of yourself isn’t just essential for your own well-being—it’s essential for your ability to truly serve and support others.

Choosing yourself is a form of love—for yourself and for the people in your life. When you nurture yourself, set boundaries, and honor your well-being, you become more present, more compassionate, and more capable of making a real difference in the lives of others.

With Balance and Care,

Just Catrina