As young adults, we are told that it's important to get involved and give back. But with this, we often tend to forget ourselves and our needs. I'm not implying that you should over-indulge in anything and be self-centered. I'm asking you to realize that your own needs aren't any less important than everyone else and that it's okay to take time for things you love.
When I got to Drexel, I consistently poured from an empty cup. I so used to constantly building my resume and always being the member of the team who showed up for everything. What didn't make sense when I got to college was that I was finally studying something I loved learning about, dancing in a pre-professional company, and an active member of several student organizations, and I still was unhappy.
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Although I loved those commitments, I didn't realize what it was doing to my health. I was getting poor sleep from studying all night and staying out late to volunteer or go to a dance rehearsal. On the rare occasion that I found a little free time, I felt selfish if I decided to read a book, binge watches Netflix with my boyfriend, or even call my mom. I felt that my time had to be spend studying, practicing for dance, or working on something for my sorority.
I finally understand that it's OK to stay up and watch Leonardo DiCaprio win an Oscar with my roommates, or to make time to start writing again. Self-care is crucial to living a healthy, happy life. I'm a nursing student and I can't take care of patients if I don't take care of myself.
You can't constantly give everyone all your time and happiness in every direction if you don't make time and happiness for yourself first. You can't pour from an empty cup.
