A message from Sandy. We know what is good for us, but so often we don’t do it. We know we should eat better, and exercise more, but still we don’t always make healthy choices. We know we should spend our time more effectively, but good time management often eludes us. We often find ourselves putting others first while neglecting our own needs and wants. We don’t get enough rest or sleep and our endless to-do list hangs over our heads. Ever wonder why you’re riding in the back  of your own bus?

We don’t do the things we know are good for us because we are so busy taking care of others that we sometimes neglect ourselves. The problem isn’t lack of information–we have plenty of information about the importance of sleep, healthy foods, and exercise. The problem is how we prioritize our lives.

Psychologists tell us that some people are inner-directed and some are other-directed. Some people focus on their own internal guidance (inner-directed) system for making choices about how to spend their time and energy. Their own self-interest ranks very high on their list of priorities. “What’s in it for me?” is a key  guiding principle in determining where they focus their attention and how they make day-to-day decisions.

Some people are other-directed, they are primarily concerned with relationships, especially regarding people they care about. “How can I help others?” is their key question. Building and nurturing relationships with loved ones, family and friends is the guiding principle in their lives. In general men tend  to be more inner-directed, while women tend to be more other-directed. (there are exceptions of course) This may help us understand why women sometimes do such a poor job of taking care of themselves. Then wonder why they are exhausted, frazzled, stressed-out, anxious or depressed.

Don’t be discouraged! Awareness is the first step. Learn the value of doing nothing, (yes you heard me–nothing!) how to play again, how to become more inner-directed, and most important, how to ask for help.  I’m going rogue…..just once–I’m going to lose my to-do list! What do you do to put yourself first?