Hey Mom.. It’s Good to Prioritize Yourself..
Are you out of shape, unhealthy and unhappy because you rarely prioritize yourself? In honor of Mother’s Day let’s discuss why, as a mom, you should continue to make yourself a priority.
Moms often put themselves last because they prioritize the needs and well-being of their children and family above their own. First, let’s dive into why that may be the case, then we can discuss why it’s not great and how to change it.
Why do moms put themselves last?
Cultural and societal expectations can play a significant role in shaping a mother’s behavior. Women are often socialized to believe that their primary role is as a caregiver, and that they should prioritize the needs of their family above their own. This can be reinforced by messages in the media, as well as by family and community expectations. When you continue to go above and beyond it becomes the standard for others around you, and yourself, so when you give less, they may feel slighted and you may feel guilty.
Personal values and beliefs can also contribute to a mother’s tendency to put herself last. For many women, caring for their family and children is a source of fulfillment and purpose, and they may feel that putting themselves first is selfish or irresponsible. Additionally, some mothers may struggle with guilt or anxiety about taking time for themselves, feeling that they should always be available to their family.
Finally, maternal instinct can also play a role in a mother’s tendency to put herself last. From a biological perspective, mothers are hardwired to prioritize the survival and well-being of their offspring, which can lead them to sacrifice their own needs and wants for the sake of their children.
Why is it harmful to always come last?
Making everyone else a priority over oneself can be harmful because it can lead to neglecting one’s own needs and well-being. When a person consistently puts others before themselves, they may experience feelings of exhaustion, burnout, and resentment. This can negatively impact their physical and mental health, as well as their relationships with others.
Neglecting self-care can also lead to a decrease in productivity and effectiveness in daily tasks and responsibilities. When a person is not taking care of themselves, they may find it difficult to concentrate, make decisions, and perform at their best. Additionally, neglecting self-care can lead to increased stress levels, which can have negative effects on the body, bone density and muscle loss, digestive issues, and a weakened immune system.
Furthermore, when a person is consistently putting others before themselves, they may be more likely to tolerate unhealthy or abusive behaviors from others. This can lead to a cycle of self-neglect and mistreatment by others, which can be difficult to break free from.
How to break the cycle and become a priority?
Stopping the pattern of putting oneself last can be a challenging but necessary process for individuals who have developed the habit of prioritizing the needs of others over their own.
First, it’s important to recognize the importance of self-care. It’s important to acknowledge that self-care is not selfish, but rather essential for overall health and well-being. Taking care of oneself can lead to increased energy, improved mood, and better relationships with others.
Next, set boundaries. It’s important to set clear boundaries with others to protect one’s own time, energy, and resources. This may involve saying “no” to requests or obligations that are not essential or do not align with one’s values or goals. But once those boundaries are set, they MUST be upheld, otherwise, they’re useless.
Prioritize self-reflection and take time to reflect on one’s own needs and values can help clarify priorities and goals. This can help individuals make choices that are in alignment with their own needs and well-being.
Practice self-compassion as it is important to treat oneself with kindness and understanding, rather than self-criticism or judgment. This can involve acknowledging and accepting one’s own limitations and imperfections, and practicing self-forgiveness.
Seeking support from friends, family members, or a coach can be helpful in developing a plan to prioritize one’s own needs and well-being. This can also provide accountability and encouragement throughout the process.
Overall, stopping the pattern of putting oneself last requires a willingness to prioritize one’s own needs and well-being. It may involve making changes to established patterns of behavior, as well as seeking support and guidance from others.
With commitment and effort, however, it is possible to develop a healthier relationship with oneself and with others.
Your Coach,
Kyra
P.S. Do you need help prioritizing yourself? Work with me and let me help you! Learn more about online personal training options at KyraWilliamsFitness.com/signup.