Doing something for ourselves can be the very last thing to reach the top of the pile. And yet it’s a vital tool in helping to balance our mental health - it’s applying our own oxygen mask first. It’s easy to prioritise others needs, and there can be a natural pull to firefight, with the longer term aim of easing pressure on ourselves. But if we don’t stop the bus, the wheels DO come off.  

Accepting that shift in vision is key to better mental health, and lots of us will have had to learn it the hard way. It’s what “be kind to yourself” means. I used to think that meant eating a fudge doughnut without the guilt, but it’s nothing like that. It’s accepting that we cannot hope to be well without looking after ourselves FIRST.

Do you say “I wish I could…”

Do you say “I should…”

Do you say “I would but…”

While could, should, and would are often shadow bullies, they can hold keys. Maybe it’s time to let them have a little airspace. Let them speak.  

It’s not pretty when the wheels come off, prevention is easier than cure. I’m not immune here - I currently have an achey shoulder again because I haven’t prioritised my weights. Stop the bus! It’s time.

If you feel like it, tell me the things you do for yourself, and whether they are squeezed in or are prioritised. (And feel free to share your could, should or would.) We can all be inspired and encouraged!

Love from 

The room above the garage

A Moodscope member