September 10, 2024

10 Actions To Make Yourself A Priority

In a busy, demanding world, remembering to take time for yourself can be a huge challenge. However many tasks you need to complete or errands you need to run, it is important to make sure you are prioritizing yourself within your own life. If you struggle to make yourself a priority, consider implementing these basic actions to ensure you are taking good care of yourself.

Set boundaries with others and stick to them.

Establish clear boundaries that protect your time, energy, and well-being. Learn to say no to commitments that don't align with your priorities. Other people are going to demand lots of your time, skills, and resources, so it is crucial for you to prioritize yourself by setting these boundaries with them.

Schedule “me time” and treat it like the important event it is.

Dedicate some specific time in your schedule for yourself. Whether it's reading, exercising, or simply relaxing, make "me time” as much of a non-negotiable as you would a work or social commitment. It is a part of your routine that serves to help you feel your best, so honor it.

Prioritize engaging in self-care.

Make self-care a priority by engaging in activities that promote your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This could include getting enough sleep, eating healthily, and practicing relaxation techniques. Taking time to care for yourself isn’t self-absorbed or selfish; it’s ensuring that your overall health and well-being are getting the attention they deserve (and require!).

Reflect on your personal values.

Regularly reflect on your values and priorities in life. Align your actions with what matters most to you, ensuring that your choices reflect your authentic self. When you act and make choices based on personal values, you are acting in a way that is most harmonious with your true self – not what others necessarily want or expect from you.

Set lots of personal goals.

Define and pursue personal goals that are important and meaningful to you. These kinds of goals could be related to your career, personal development, relationships, or any area that you value. Chasing after goals that mean a lot to you ensures that you are prioritizing your own growth and needs.

Practice being mindful.

Mindfulness is an excellent way to prioritize yourself and your needs. Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Mindfulness helps you stay present and aware, reducing stress and fostering a sense of well-being. When you’re fully aware of yourself, your environment, and your needs, it’s easier to respond to yourself in a meaningful way.

Learn to delegate tasks.

Recognize that you don't have to do everything yourself. Delegate tasks when possible, whether at work or in your personal life. It lightens your load and it’s a proactive stress management tool. Ask for help when you need it, and don’t be afraid to let someone else take the wheel on certain duties. You don’t have to be in charge of everything!

Invest time and energy into your personal relationships.

Cultivate healthy relationships that uplift and support you. Surround yourself with people who respect your needs and contribute positively to your life. By building a community of loving and supportive people around you, you are prioritizing yourself and your needs.

Celebrate all of your achievements – even the smaller ones!

Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small some of them might be. Celebrating milestones reinforces your sense of accomplishment and self-worth. It also shows that you are one of your own top priorities and are deserving of recognition and praise for a job well done.

Regularly assess what your priorities are.

People are meant to change and grow over time, which means you can see shifts in what you consider a priority in your life. Periodically assess your priorities and adjust them based on changes and needs in your life. Regular self-reflection ensures that you stay true to your evolving needs and values. It also shows that you prioritize yourself as a whole and want to make sure you are doing whatever is necessary to feel satisfied, happy, and fulfilled, even if it means adjusting a goal or changing direction.

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If you liked this article, check out my Substack Newsletter "Yikes!! I Did It Again!!" at: https://theunreliablemind.substack.com/p/yikes-i-did-it-again