Do you take time for you? Seems like so many people are routinely rushing to go to the gym or out for a run, maybe even both. Some go walking or play a sport. Others go out to a favorite place whether alone or with a friend to relax, step back, reflect and think. Many times, people don’t even think about stepping back, taking a deep breath to make time for themselves because they are too busy coordinating and doing things that daily life requires; forgetting one of the most important parts of that life…them. Without that person, their lives just wouldn’t be the same. There is a real reason, a real purpose, that each person is here, and it just takes some longer than others to realize it, accept it and believe in it. Prioritizing is organizing and choosing what is most important in your life, put those talents and gifts into effect, and truly make a difference. Self-care should always come first, because without you, those other priorities will never be taken care of or accomplished. Why you should set goals Helping others or being there for them can be done in a variety of ways. When you set goals, you can include goals that motivate you and benefit others as well. For goals that can help you reign in your day, make them reasonable. Keep the list manageable. You know you can’t accomplish everything in one day, so focus on realistic goals. Make it a point to eat breakfast and take a moment to set the stage for your day.Take a 15-minute walk during the day to clear your mind.Call or visit a friend and spend a little time being social.Set a cutoff time for electronics to focus on yourself and your family. For goals that can generate a true sense of accomplishment, focus on others! You can visit a neighbor, a shut-in, or someone who just needs someone to care.Go to the store for someone or offer to take them where they need to go.Seeing someone on the side of the road and stopping to see if they are alright is another option. Volunteer in an area where you have a passion (soup kitchen, YMCA, elderly home).Do something around the house that isn’t really “your responsibility.” Everyday little things we sometimes take for granted can be goals and altruism at the same time. For instance, with what seems like forever, I have been going to school. One of my life passions, goals if you will, is to be a counselor and help others see that they can make a difference/change in their own life. In between family, school, searching for a job and five dogs (yes, 5), I volunteer with my amazing husband and children, trying to make a difference by volunteering, like we do with Cards for Vets. Helping others can also help you The dictionary defines altruism as “unselfish regard for or devotion to the welfare of others” Whether someone has gone through a traumatic event, has a habit they’ve been trying to break for years, or just needs to vent because they feel nobody understands them, practicing altruism can make a difference. It’s not uncommon to see the greatest gifts of time and love come from those who don’t have much but still manage to give back, whether it’s time, money, or in whatever way they can. Set goals. Set goals for you that meet your needs and the needs of others.
