A Balance between Sharing and Living
You’ve always been a dependable person, right? The person that others turn to when they need help, advice, or just a shoulder to lean on. Putting others before yourself is like second nature to you. Your kindness and generosity are undeniable virtues, the traits that have earned you the respect and gratitude of those around you. However, amidst all the attention you give to others, have you ever stopped to think about your own needs and desires?
It is not selfish to prioritize yourself once in a while. Indeed, it is essential for your well — being.
You’ve spent so much time listening to people share their problems, offering solutions, and providing support with unwavering patience.
You’ve given your time and energy to advocate for causes you believe in, never hesitating to provide first — hand assistance. But in the midst of all the kindness, when was the last time you paused to check in with yourself?
Remember the last family gathering? You were the one who made sure everyone had enough food and drinks, going around to talk to each relative, making sure no one felt left out. You’ve become irreplaceable in many ways, but what about the return?
You have become so adept at fulfilling the role and meeting expectations that sometimes it feels as if your own wishes have been delayed indefinitely because at this moment, there is someone who needs your help.
It doesn't mean you have to regret the choices you've made. The joy of seeing someone's face light up with relief or gratitude is a priceless gift. However, there is a part of you that wonders about what would happen if you gave yourself the opportunity to be a little more selfish. What if you went on that trip you've been dreaming of, or bought something you really needed?
Maybe often you find peace in the stories of others you have helped. They tell you how your encouragement changed their lives, how your advice led them to greatness. You nod and smile, sincerely happy for them, but there’s a sense of sadness — a whisper of desire that you’ve been harboring.
Perhaps it's time to realize that helping others doesn't have to mean sacrificing your own happiness. Instead, when you feel fulfilled and happy, your capacity to help others will be even stronger.
You deserve the same compassion that you so easily give to others. Furthermore, by nurturing your own passions and ambitions, you not only enrich your life but also inspire those around you to do the same.
So, take the first step towards living your own life to the fullest. Make a list of things that bring you happiness and start making time for them. Set boundaries that protect your time and energy, knowing that saying no to others sometimes means saying yes to yourself.
After all, helping others is admirable, but remember, you have to live for yourself too. And as you continue to light up the lives of others, don’t forget to let your own light shine as brightly as possible.
