What if the secret to unlocking your best creative self was as simple as putting yourself first? There’s this catchy phrase in finance called “Pay Yourself First,” which means setting aside savings before paying any bills. But I believe this concept extends far beyond finances.
When we’re constantly pulled in a million directions, learning to quote “pay yourself first” is a simple reminder: Don’t forget about you.
Why We Feel Burned Out
As creators, our lives are filled with endless projects, tight deadlines, and the constant pressure to innovate. It’s exhilarating but can also be exhausting. How many times have you put off the things you truly want to do—or need to do—for yourself until the end of the day when you’re already tired and wasted? We push ourselves to the brink, squeezing our passions and self-care into the leftover minutes of our days, and then wonder why we feel burned out, unfulfilled, or exhausted.
Signs You’re Putting Yourself Last
Let’s talk about the signs that you’re caught in this trap of self-neglect. Feeling constantly tired, even after a full night’s sleep, is a big one. Struggling to fall asleep or waking up frequently throughout the night might also ring a bell. These are red flags that your body is crying out for attention.
Another sign is physical discomfort—persistent headaches, muscle tension, or other unexplained aches. Emotionally, you might find yourself snapping at minor annoyances or experiencing mood swings more often. If activities that once brought you joy now feel like a chore, that’s a major indicator that burnout is looming.
Neglecting basic self-care is another symptom. Maybe you’re skipping meals or reaching for unhealthy options because you’re too busy to cook. Or perhaps personal hygiene routines have slipped. Struggling to concentrate, feeling mentally foggy, and withdrawing from social interactions are all signs that you need to recalibrate your self-care practices.
Why Do We Put Ourselves Last?
Many of us grow up with the belief that prioritizing others is virtuous. This mindset can make prioritizing our own needs feel selfish or wrong. Combine that with low self-esteem, the fear of rejection, and a tendency to people-please, and it’s no wonder we end up last on our own lists.
Yet when there’s nothing more to give, we need to ask ourselves, is this sustainable?
Taking Back Control: How to Prioritize Yourself
Imagine waking up every day with more energy, clarity, and creativity. By paying yourself first, you can reclaim your time and focus on what truly matters. Here’s some ways you can start taking back control:
Start Your Day on Your Own Terms: Begin your day with activities that set a positive tone. This could be a quiet moment of reflection, a brisk walk, or a simple exercise routine. Reclaim your mornings for yourself.
Keep Learning and Growing: Dedicate time each day or week for learning and personal development. Whether it’s reading a book, listening to a podcast, or taking an online course, continuous learning fuels creativity and keeps your skills sharp.
Take Care of Your Health: Prioritize regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and mental health practices like mindfulness or journaling. Your physical and mental health are foundational to everything else you do.
Engage in What You Love: Spend time on hobbies or projects that spark joy and creativity. These pursuits can be deeply fulfilling and rejuvenating.
Nurture Your Relationships: Invest time in meaningful relationships with family and friends. Deep connections provide emotional support and enrich your life.
Protect Your Time and Energy: Learn to say no to demands that don’t align with your priorities. Set boundaries that protect your time and energy.
Start small. Choose one or two strategies that resonate with you and commit to them consistently. Reflect on how these changes impact your well-being and adjust as needed.
Your Most Valuable Investment
We are our most valuable assets. By paying ourselves first with our time, we create a foundation for a fulfilling and balanced life. This isn’t about grand gestures but about making small, intentional choices that prioritize our well-being.
This week, carve out time for activities that nourish and empower you. Take more naps, get a great meal, take yourself on a mini-date. Look for things that will replenish you, not distract you.
Let me know how it goes. Until next time.
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