4 'Selfish' Things Healthy People Do Every Day (That Actually Make Them Better Partners and Parents)
Ever noticed how flight attendants always say "put your own oxygen mask on first before helping others"? There's a profound wisdom in this that goes way beyond air travel. Yet so many of us feel guilty for taking care of ourselves, labeling it as 'selfish' when it's actually the foundation of being there for those we love.
Recently, a client told me how she'd been running on empty for years, convinced that being a good mother meant putting herself last. "I thought sacrificing everything for my family made me a better parent," she shared. "But I was actually showing up as a tired, irritable version of myself - not the mother I wanted to be."
Let's explore four supposedly 'selfish' practices that actually make you a better partner, parent, and person - and why you shouldn't feel guilty about them.
1. They Say "No" Without Explaining Themselves
Healthy people understand that "No" is an acceptable answer. They don't spend hours crafting the perfect excuse or feeling guilty about declining invitations, extra work, or family demands. By setting clear boundaries, they actually show up more fully for the commitments they do make.
When you're not stretched thin trying to please everyone, you bring your best self to your relationships. Your "yes" becomes more meaningful because it's genuine, not obligatory.
2. They Take Regular 'Time-Outs'
Whether it's a morning meditation, an evening walk, or a weekly exercise class, healthy people consistently carve out time for themselves. They recognize that solitude isn't a luxury - it's essential maintenance for their mental and emotional wellbeing.
This quiet time allows them to process emotions, recharge their energy, and return to their families with renewed patience and presence. It's not about escaping - it's about sustaining.
3. They Invest in Their Personal Growth
Healthy individuals spend time and resources on their own development, whether through courses, therapy, wellness practices, or pursuing interests that light them up. They understand that personal growth isn't selfish - it's how they expand their capacity to support others.
When you're growing and feeling fulfilled, you model self-respect and continuous learning for your children. You show them what it looks like to value yourself.
4. They Honor Their Body's Signals
Perhaps most importantly, healthy people listen to their body's needs - resting when tired, eating when hungry, moving when stiff. They don't push through exhaustion or ignore stress signals in the name of productivity or caregiving.
By respecting their body's wisdom, they maintain the energy and health needed to care for others sustainably. They understand that you can't pour from an empty cup.
The Ripple Effect of Self-Care
Here's what's fascinating about these 'selfish' practices: they create a positive ripple effect through all your relationships. When you're well-rested, emotionally regulated, and feeling fulfilled, you become more patient with your children, more present with your partner, and more resilient in facing life's challenges.
But here's what many don't realize: implementing these practices isn't always intuitive, especially if you've spent years putting yourself last. Sometimes our body's signals get scrambled, boundaries feel impossible to set, and guilt creeps in even when we know better.
This is where BodyTalk can make a profound difference. By addressing the underlying patterns that keep you stuck in self-sacrifice mode, we can help your body and mind remember how to prioritize your wellbeing naturally.
Curious about how this might work for you? I offer a FREE 30-minute consultation where we can explore your specific challenges and discuss how BodyTalk could help you implement these 'selfish' practices without the guilt. Let's talk about how you can show up as your best self for those you love - by taking care of yourself first.
Book your free consultation here, and let's start your journey toward guilt-free self-care.
