That phrase caught me while I was watching a K-drama. It was in the middle of a conversation between two best friends who are also doctors. One just came back from an emergency at the hospital at 3 in the morning after a long night taking care of his son.
He’s also a single father if you’re wondering. Because his son was sick, he had no choice but to ask his best friend to help look after his son. After coming back from the hospital, that single dad started making breakfast instead of taking a break. It seems like his life never stops; he’s always busy with work, taking care of his son and caring for other people but himself.
Do you see yourself in it?
You try to work a lot so that you will feel important and valuable.
You’re always smiling and caring for everyone.
You always listen to your friends or family concerns, even from a stranger.
But do you forget to listen to the most important person? It’s you.
Your soulmate.
Are you paying attention to your body where it’s telling you it’s exhausted, but you choose to ignore it?
That you’re not in the position to care for others?
That you’re overworking?
That it’s necessary to be happy and try to be okay all the time?
Not really.
There’s a saying: The one’s always available turns out to be the one who’s not available entirely to anyone.
Because when you’re exhausted, it shows no matter how hard we try.
But there’s no shame in showing it. We all have the right to show our feelings (With one condition: not to hurt others.)
Are you not feeling well? You can schedule to meet up with friends another time.
Are you overworking? You can allocate time again or ask for help. There’s no weakness in asking for help.
You’re not feeling happy, acknowledging your emotions and how you can cheer yourself up.
Like asking yourself: what have you done for yourself lately?
Have you ever asked yourself that question to know yourself more?
Sometimes, it’s just about having ice cream and get away from the screen to recharge yourself.
Or you can give yourself a tiny little gift.
Or know when to say no when you’re exhausted.
My dear, remember we’re just like our phones. We need to recharge our batteries too. Listen to your body more to take care of yourself a little more.
Because in the end, you’re the one who can take care of yourself the best.
And from that, you can also take care of your loved ones.