These days, there's a strong two-way pull between helping others and helping yourself. On the one hand, there are a lot of people who need extra support, whether they're struggling in a third-world country, or just a friend who needs to talk. But on the other side of the spectrum, it's all about 'treating yourself' and taking time for yourself to relax and indulge. While both of these things are good, neither one should be your main focus.

When you constantly look out for others before yourself, you'll get emotionally and even physically exhausted, and the quality of your own life will suffer. So before you help your friend study for their test, study for yours. If you don't have much money to begin with, don't donate a ton of it, even if it's for a great cause. Make sure your needs are being met, and when you're feeling stable and ready, do what you can to help others, too.

Still, being totally self-centred is no way to live, either. Your friends are bound to get a bit annoyed if you make everything about you and refuse to help them out when they need it. If you've had a long day and need some you-time, go for it, but don't ignore good relationships for it every time. Got some spare time? You could try volunteering, or hitting up that friend you haven't talked to for awhile. It takes practice to remember to think of others, but it's gratifying when you know you've brightened someone's day.

Personally, I either do everything for others and neglect my own happiness, or I withdraw and think of only what I need, not what I can do for my friends. When in doubt, know that you need to take care of yourself first, but that lending a hand to others when you're able to is often a good idea.

How do you balance selflessness and self-care?

Til next time!

Kat ♥