Have you ever been in a position where you want to make a positive impact on your overall well being, only to struggle to find that ‘balance’ due to work, family or social life?
You end up having a hundred and one other responsibilities to deal with, so sometimes the easiest thing to let go of is you. Does this sound familiar to you?
Life has a knack of getting in our way sometimes and starts to erode away at those good intentions. As a result, sometimes your own health, fitness and nutritional habits end up taking a back seat.
I was exactly the same for years so I can definitely relate to this struggle. I spent years focusing on work, over-indulging, putting others first and as a result, my own health deteriorated.
When I eventually did decide enough was enough and I wanted to make a positive change - I ended up feeling guilty, even selfish, for putting any focus on myself that might potentially “steal” from other areas. As a result, I let it slip down my list of priorities and my health suffered again.
I always like to use the analogy of the in-flight safety check (that is, if we can even remember aeroplanes at this stage - it’s been a while! ). We are always advised to put our own oxygen mask on first before helping anyone else. The same holds true here when it comes to your own wellbeing. You cannot pour from an empty cup, so don't run yourself bone dry.
It's okay to give yourself that permission to be selfish, to prioritise yourself and not feel guilty for doing so. Because with that step comes a healthier version of you in both body and mind - and that can have a much bigger impact than you think, not only on you, but also on the people around you. It can be a big mindset shift at first, but once you put it into action and see the fruits of your labour, you will be amazed with the impact. So sit back for a moment and let that sink in.
Looking after yourself should be a necessity. You only have one life and this one body to live in, so you might as well make this vessel as comfortable and efficient as possible for the duration of the ride.
I would love to hear other people's thoughts! Am I on my own on this one? Feel free to reach out to me.
Micheál Penston is the Head Coach at FM Fitness & Nutrition based in Westport, Co Mayo. They specialize in helping busy men and women to create the healthiest versions of themselves through educating and empowering around all areas of their lifestyle from fitness, nutrition, recovery and behaviours. You can grab a free copy of the 5 Stage Health & Fitness Kickstarter or find out more about their online and in person coaching methods at www.fmfitnessnutrition.com or social media handles @fmfitnessnutrition
