Let’s practice putting ourselves first……. 

We are 15 days into quarter two of 2024, April reminds me it is stress awareness month and there is a need to manage what I put on my plate as life be lifeing and life pressures can contribute to stress.  

Putting yourself first can be challenging when you have important roles to fulfil as a mother, big sister, and CEO. However, it’s important to remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish but rather a necessity for you to be able to perform your roles effectively. Being a mother, big sister, and CEO requires a lot of energy and effort, and if you don’t prioritize your own well-being, you may not be able to meet the demands of these roles. So, make sure to carve out time for yourself and engage in activities that you enjoy. This will not only help you recharge your batteries but also boost your productivity and overall well-being. 

Here are five tips on how I am putting myself first: 

1. Set boundaries: I have established clear boundaries in my personal and professional life. Learning to say “no” when I need to, and I  don’t feel guilty about it. This helps me to avoid overcommitting myself and feeling overwhelmed.  

2. Prioritise self-care: This year I have made self-care a priority. This includes getting enough sleep, eating better, trying to exercise regularly, and engaging in activities that bring me joy. Taking care of myself helps me feel more energised and better equipped to tackle my responsibilities.  

3. Schedule “me time”: I set aside time for myself every week to do something that I enjoy, whether that’s reading a book, taking a bubble bath, or going for a walk. This time is essential for my mental and emotional well-being.  

4. Delegate tasks: As a CEO, I have learnt to delegate tasks to others, so I am not doing everything myself. This gives me more time to focus on the things that matter most. 

5. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the moment. It can help me to reduce stress and increase my overall sense of well-being.  

What do you do to put yourself first and manage your stress levels?