It’s okay to put yourself first. It’s okay to decline that invitation and decide, instead, to sleep in. It’s okay to not put your feelings on the line. It’s okay to put off doing that homework assignment when you feel those panic attacks creeping in. It’s okay.

It is about time that you realize that you matter.

In this whirlwind called life, where everyone is so intent on getting somewhere, you are allowed to stop and take a deep breath. You are allowed to go at your own pace in life.

You are allowed to leave any situation that you don’t think has your best interest at heart. You are allowed to cut toxic people out of your life. You are allowed to break down and cry when you feel it’s necessary.

You can do whatever you think is right for you in the moment. It doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks.

Stop always catering to the needs of others, and for once, cater to your own needs and desires. Take care of yourself. You matter. A thousand times over, you matter.

Don’t apologize for choosing yourself. It’s not selfish of you to recognize what is good for you and what is bad. It is not selfish of you to choose to do what is best for yourself.

You only have this one life, so live it, and live it well. Don’t squander it on the opinions of others. Treat yourself kindly. Be sensitive to yourself. Give yourself a break once and a while, and learn to put yourself above others at times.