Me First is Not a Bad Thing

Growing up my grandmother always reminded us to put others first and good things would happen. As time went by, the realization hit me that something was askew. It certainly could not have been that the wisdom of my elders was wrong. Somehow, always putting others first was more difficult than it seemed it should be.

Maturity tends to bring focus on what is important. To serve others we need to be of healthy mind, physically strong, and at peace within. To get there sometimes we need to detour from our grandmother’s wisdom.

Taking time to ensure you are ready for the day and ensuring when you step out into life that you identify with your values often means putting you first. Gathering your thoughts and being grateful for the challenge in front of you requires a few minutes of self-balancing. Reflection is not only what you view in the mirror.

For me, a few small things start each day on the best path possible. Walking with my dog allows me to see early morning nature. The scattering of rabbits, calls of birds, the occasional bark of an alligator. The smells of the morning grass mixed with the chill of the early air makes for a perfect landing spot. A few minutes of reflection and a couple moments to be grateful get my mind headed in the right direction. A 10-minute drive to nowhere in particular lets me clear my mind before engaging with others.

Putting me first for a few minutes when not engaged with others is not being selfish. It prepares me so when the day moves forward, I will place others first.  What is it that I might do to make someone else’s day brighter? How can I be a better person? What could be said that encourages others to reach for their personal greatness? How do I create a “what’s in it for them” moment?

What are the me first moments you create that make you better?