7 situations in life where you should always put yourself first

There’s a fine line between being selfless and forgetting to prioritize yourself.

Often, we’re so caught up in putting everyone else first, we neglect our own needs. But there are certain instances where you absolutely need to put yourself first.

No, it’s not selfish. It’s about self-preservation and maintaining your mental health. I’m going to share seven specific situations where it’s not only okay, but necessary, to put yourself first.

Get ready to embrace a new perspective on prioritizing your own needs. You owe it to yourself. Let’s dive into “7 situations in life where you should always put yourself first.”

1) When your health is at stake

Health is wealth, as they say. And it’s true.

Nothing matters more than your physical and mental well-being. Yet, we often neglect our health in the pursuit of other things – work, relationships, or commitments.

But the reality is, everything else can wait. Your health cannot. It’s essential to listen to your body, recognize its needs, and act accordingly.

If you’re feeling unwell or overly stressed, it’s a clear message from your body that you need to prioritize your health. It’s not selfish; it’s necessary.

Remember, you won’t be able to give your best to anything or anyone if you’re not at your best health-wise. So in situations where your health is on the line, always put yourself first.

2) When setting personal boundaries

Take it from me, setting personal boundaries is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship with yourself and others.

I remember a time when I used to say ‘yes’ to everything, thinking that it would make me more likable or valued. But all it did was leave me feeling drained, stressed, and overcommitted.

I’d find myself doing things I didn’t want to do, feeling resentful and frustrated. And guess what? People didn’t value me more for it; they just expected me to keep bending over backward.

That’s when I realized the importance of setting personal boundaries. Now, I make sure to communicate my needs clearly and ensure that I’m not stretching myself too thin.

Believe me, saying ‘no’ when you need to isn’t being selfish; it’s an act of self-respect. So don’t be afraid to set personal boundaries. It’s a situation where you should always put yourself first.

3) In your pursuit of happiness

Happiness is subjective, and what brings joy to one person might not necessarily do the same for another.

Individuals who prioritize their own happiness often experience higher levels of psychological well-being. That’s right. It’s not just about fleeting moments of joy but overall mental health. And that’s why, in the pursuit of your own happiness, you should always put yourself first.

Whether it’s choosing a career that you love over a more lucrative one that you hate or deciding to move to a new city for a fresh start, prioritize your happiness. It’s a critical part of living a fulfilling life.

4) During personal growth and development

Personal growth and development is a lifelong journey. It’s about becoming the best version of yourself, and that requires time, effort, and commitment. It also often means stepping out of your comfort zone.

Whether it’s pursuing a new hobby, going back to school, or investing in self-improvement courses, it’s important to prioritize your growth.

Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. By focusing on your personal growth and development, you’re not only improving yourself but also enhancing your ability to contribute positively to others’ lives.

So don’t hesitate to put yourself first when it comes to your personal growth and development. It’s an investment that will always pay off.

5) When ending toxic relationships

Relationships should be a source of joy, support, and companionship. However, sadly, not all relationships are healthy or beneficial.

I once found myself in a friendship that was more draining than rewarding. The constant negativity, manipulation, and lack of respect took a toll on my mental health. It was tough to admit that someone I cared about was causing me such distress.

It’s painful to end a relationship, even a toxic one. But sometimes, it’s the only choice you have for your sanity and well-being.

Remember, you deserve respect, kindness, and positive interactions. If a relationship doesn’t provide those things, it’s okay to walk away. Always prioritize your well-being above maintaining harmful relationships.

6) When you need to recharge

We all have those days when everything feels overwhelming, and all we need is some alone time to recharge.

In this fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget that it’s okay to take a step back. To disconnect from everything and everyone for a while. To just breathe.

Whether it’s taking a quiet walk, reading a book, or simply spending a day doing nothing, give yourself permission to rest.

Remember, you can’t be there for others if you’re running on empty. So when you feel the need to recharge, don’t hesitate to put yourself first. It’s not just okay; it’s crucial.

7) In preserving your self-esteem

Your self-esteem is the foundation of your overall well-being. It directly influences your happiness, success, and relationships.

When you have a strong sense of self-worth, you make healthier choices and don’t let others undermine your value.

So in situations where your self-esteem is threatened, whether it’s a demeaning boss, a disparaging partner, or a judgmental friend, always choose yourself.

Your worth is not negotiable and should never be compromised. Stand up for yourself and protect your self-esteem. It’s the most important thing you can do for yourself.

Embracing the power of self-prioritization

The essence of life lies not merely in existing but in living well.

And living well often means knowing when to put yourself first. It’s a delicate balance between fulfilling your responsibilities towards others and nurturing your own needs and desires.

In a world that often demands constant giving, it’s crucial to remember the words of Eleanor Brownn, “Self-care is not selfish. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.”

So whether it’s taking time off to recharge, setting personal boundaries, or preserving your self-esteem, remember that putting yourself first is not about being selfish. It’s about respecting and valuing yourself.

As you navigate through life, remember these seven situations where you should always put yourself first. Because at the end of the day, your relationship with yourself sets the tone for every other relationship you have.

Take care of yourself. You deserve it.