For years, I’ve been guiding others through their health journeys—helping clients set goals, improve fitness, and balance their wellness. But a few weeks ago, a thought emerged: Have I ever considered my own body goals?
At first, it caught me off guard. I had to sit with it for a while. After reflecting, I looked at my body in the mirror and realized that I do want improvement. I want to be stronger. After becoming a mother, I noticed lower back pain and weak core strength. This moment of realization marked a turning point in how I approached my health, and it also revealed how often I had put myself on the back burner.
Taking Steps to Prioritize Myself
Now, I’m intentionally putting myself first. Twice a week, I lead a group of women for a one-hour run or walk, and I’m in talks with a trainer to start a personalized fitness program. On top of that, I’ve hired a speech coach to improve my communication, which is crucial for my business and personal growth.
But I’d be lying if I said this shift was easy. At first, there was guilt. I worried that by focusing on myself, I was taking away from my family or business. I felt stretched thin and was used to putting others before me. It took time to realize that putting myself first didn’t mean neglecting others—it meant I’d show up better for them.
Balancing Everything with Routine
Structuring my day has been key. Currently, I wake up between 4:30 and 6:00 AM, depending on the demands of the day. I’ve built in time for my workouts, content planning, and even moments of flexibility. I also plan out my meals every three weeks, which helps me stay on track with my nutrition. Lunches are simple—wraps, salads, or sandwiches—and dinner is always a lighter meal. I even have a few go-to healthy restaurant options for days when cooking isn’t an option.
I’ve learned that I need to protect my time and set boundaries. Whether it’s for my health or business, prioritizing certain things means being firm about what matters most each day. Some weeks, my health takes the lead; other times, my business does. But having a flexible routine that incorporates both is what keeps me going.
The Impact on My Health and Business
Since I’ve started putting myself first, I’ve noticed significant changes. I’m happier, my mood is better, and I feel more aligned with who I am and what I’m creating. There’s a beautiful synchronicity between my personal growth and my business. The more I invest in myself, the more my mindset shifts, and my tolerance for change increases.
My business has also benefited. It’s more organized, and I’m more willing to put myself out there, which is reflected in the content I create and the way I run things. By accepting both my strengths and my vulnerabilities, I’ve learned to cope with failure and embrace success.
Advice for Women Who Put Themselves Last
To the women who constantly put others first: You are the center. If you ignore your own needs, you risk losing yourself in others. The world benefits when you pay attention to your own desires. It’s not selfish—it’s necessary.
Start with something small: take five minutes of silence each day to focus on your thoughts. Get good rest, drink more water, and find something that makes you laugh. Don’t be afraid to spend time with yourself. It can be both exciting and scary, but it’s a crucial step in getting to know yourself again. Pay attention to what you consistently repeat to yourself—it’s telling you something important.