Sometimes it can feel uncomfortable to prioritize yourself. It may feel selfish, unrealistic, or even daunting to figure out HOW to. You’re not alone…recovering people pleaser here! Whether you’re also a recovering people pleaser, a parent or guardian, or just someone who gives a lot to others and not enough to yourself, there’s always a way to start prioritizing your health and well-being.

I’m a firm believer as a coach that accessibility and accountability are key when it comes to creating positive change for your health and happiness. Let’s face it, we live in a society where “health and wellness” are blanket terms that are objective and over-generalized…there are so many opinions in the field with new diets, products, regimes, etc. being pushed continuously.

No wonder it feels daunting and inaccessible for so many people!

So, how can you begin to prioritize YOU in a way that cuts the BS and feels accessible?

Let’s start by creating a vision of your future. 1, 3, 5, or 10 years from now…who do you want to be? how do you want to feel? what do want to have accomplished? how does this align with your values? who is there with you? what feels the same? different?

Once you have created a vision, it’s time to think about where you are now vs. where you would like to go. What is one bigger, overall goal that is going to move you in the direction of your vision? Get specific! A goal of “I want to workout more” or “I want to calm my nervous system” won’t cut it. Set this up to be S.M.A.R.T - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic/Relevent, and Time-bound.

Once you have an overall goal set, it’s time to break down some smaller actionable steps. Think about daily and weekly actions that also fall under the S.M.A.R.T method. It’s important to set these smaller actionable steps up so that they are realistic, accessible, and just a bit challenging. There’s never anything “too small”, as long as it works for YOU.

Do you have 5 minutes every morning to practice deep breathing? Great, let’s start there. Can you commit 30 minutes a week to a set of tools or practices? Wonderful! Remember, realistic and just a bit challenging.

Finally, think about accountability. Can you link arms with a friend who has a similar goal in mind? What about keeping a log with some gold stars when you accomplish your smaller steps? Would it help you to work in partnership with a coach to establish structure in accountability? Find what works for YOU.

Now…you have a format laid out…but the initial problem is still here. Everything I just shared is important…but it will only take you so far if you don’t first dissect why you aren’t prioritizing yourself in the first place. Here are some reflection questions to consider.

• Do I feel deserving of prioritizing myself?

• What obstacles are keeping me from putting my health and well-being first?

• What limiting beliefs do I have around prioritizing myself?

• What feels scary about prioritizing myself?

• What feels exciting about prioritizing myself?

• What beliefs do I have about others who put themselves first? Is it true? Partially true? Harmful or helpful?

• When did I start putting others before me? Why?

• What support do I need in this journey?

Remember, you are not alone. You cannot pour from an empty cup. It’s time to fill your cup up SO MUCH that it can overflow to those around you. I believe in you 🙂.

Below you can find a link to free resources that can help you further reflect & explore everything I just shared with you about making your health and well-being a priority.

Exciting news….

In addition to online coaching services, I am now offering in-person personal health and wellness coaching through the Celadon Wellness Club on Lady’s Island, SC.

Special Features

Move With Me!

Gentle Yoga every Friday

A slow and intentional movement practice where we are gentle with our minds and bodies. Class is toward the ground for the majority of the time, except for a few standing balancing poses. Emphasis is on the breath through this practice as a tool to bring us into the present moment, mind & body. Props are provided.

When? Fridays from 9:15 am - 10:15 am / Where? Celadon Club on Lady’s Island, SC / How to sign up? call (843) 379-1088 or sign up through the Celadon Club app

Yoga Wellness Retreat

I will be partnering with The Celadon Club alongside other incredible teachers to bring you a weekend full of yoga and wellness. Come renew, connect, and enrich with us! Details below.