Put Your Mask on First
Self-care. It’s become quite a buzzword lately. You see it on magazine covers, hear it in podcasts, and scroll past it daily on social media. But beyond the trend, it holds a truth that many of us have learned the hard way.
Recently, I participated in the Women Loving Life Summit, and one part of the program focused entirely on self-care. Two speakers shared powerful, personal stories that echoed a common theme: they had each neglected their physical and mental well-being for far too long. The demands of family, careers, and everything in between had pushed them to a breaking point. Anxiety and depression went unaddressed, exercise was non-existent, and sleep was interrupted or insufficient. Over time, this neglect led to exhaustion, irritability, and a complete lack of focus.
And let’s be clear, this isn’t just a women’s issue. Men and women alike fall into the trap of believing that sacrifice is noble, that constantly giving to others without caring for oneself is somehow virtuous. But the truth is simple, we cannot pour from an empty cup.
So, what can you do?
First, you must pause and recognize the toll life’s demands may be taking on your body and mind. I recall when I was a young mother working a demanding job, I did everything for everyone else and left no space for myself. One day, I felt like the pressure in my head was so intense it might blow right off my shoulders. That moment was a turning point. I stopped. I paid attention. And then I began to make a change.
Second, take small steps. That’s all it takes to begin. When I was in that high-stress season, I started walking, just 30 minutes, a few times a week, around my neighborhood. It was simple, free, and immensely healing. Traci Romeo, one of the Summit speakers, shared how she started her self-care journey with just five minutes of daily meditation. That modest beginning laid a foundation for more. Self-care doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming; it needs to be consistent.
Third, remember that self-care isn’t selfish; it is essential. Whether it’s yoga, journaling, proper nutrition, deep breathing, or an evening walk, these practices refuel your body and spirit. They strengthen your capacity to serve others and show up fully in every part of your life.
And if you’re a leader in your family, your workplace, or your community, your example carries weight. When you take care of your mental and physical well-being, you send a message: this is what healthy leadership looks like. On the other hand, neglecting yourself also sets an example, but not one you want others to follow. Burnout, impatience, and poor decision-making will ripple outward. People don’t just listen to what you say, they watch what you do. Show them that well-being is a priority, not an afterthought.
It is, quite literally, like the flight attendant reminds us before takeoff, “Put your mask on first before assisting others.”
It’s a metaphor that’s easy to understand, yet so often ignored. But let’s not wait for a crisis to finally start caring for ourselves. Let's choose, today, to pause, to breathe, and to put our own masks on first, so we can be strong, whole, and present for the people and responsibilities that matter most. Do you need some help figuring out where to start and how to stay on track? Schedule a free discovery session via my website. I would love to help you!