I know, the title sounds EXTREMELY selfish but it’s true. This year I am going to focus on merely MY needs.

For too long, I have put others before myself. I believe I’m the type of person who is always willing to be there for others in any way, shape or form. And don’t get me wrong, I LOVE helping others, but by doing so I would forget about my needs.

It’s safe to say, putting myself first is NOT selfish.

Acknowledging my emotions before someone else is important. Too many times have I put aside my own feelings or thoughts to please others or to give space to others. Too many times have I allowed others to “step” all over me. Obviously this doesn’t mean I’m going to not care for others -- what I mean is if I sense something or someone is bad for me then I will step away.

By doing so, I want to be able to build on my self-love and self-care -- something that has grown but also something I put aside. In all honesty, everyone should be putting themselves first. I began learning and doing so during my first semester of college, and it gave me so much room for growth.

2017 is the year I will prioritize myself because it’s time I do so. 2017 will be all about me.