Something else I'm working to uproot in my brain.

[labelleizzy]

I used to feel like I was only of service to the world when I was doing something useful for other people.
I have been uncomfortable about and procrastinated on tasks that were "only" useful to me or that took care of me only, whether physically, emotionally or spiritually.

I'm learning how to value taking care of myself, getting water, good food, exercise, and enough social or spiritual time to nourish myself and keep from feeling lonely.

Has this been true in your life? or if someone you love acts like this, can I get an AMEN?

Comments

[mama-hogswatch.livejournal.com]

Amen. greendalek and I both have a bad tendency to do it.

Among my friends these days, when we catch each other not wanting to take care of or nurture ourselves, we'll say, "Remember, put on your own oxygen mask first."

You know how when you fly, you're cautioned to put your own on before you help anyone else. After all, if you collapse, there's two people needing help and not enough people around to do it.

I do reframe self-care as a necessary thing to make sure I can do for others appropriately. Keeping myself strong, healthy, happy and stable IS useful to other people!

[labelleizzy.livejournal.com]

the oxygen mask metaphor makes a good point, but here's a problem.

how to phrase this... *scratches head*

I think I've learned how to stop beating myself up over every little decision I make, stop second-guessing, stop the Critic in my head from being overtly manipulative and mean.

However I think that when I drove out the big monsters that the little monsters changed shape and burrowed deep, and now either hang on my heels to prevent me accomplishing much, or sneak up and try to stab me in the knees. Or drug my food, or find attractive distractions, which also prevent me from accomplishing much.

I am working to manage the little monsters but I think I need little Saint Georges, little Aerins, little heroes to help me slay my dragons and little generals to help me plan the strategy that will move me forward so I can take charge of my life plan, my destiny.

I get stuck in the middle of the little battles and then I don't make much progress.

*pondering the creation of a new metaphor*