Is It Really Being Selfish? Or Are You...

Just Depositing Into Yourself?

I want to talk about something that's been on my mind. Is it really being selfish when you put your priorities at the forefront? I don't think so. I believe it's important to shut out all the noise, distance yourself from people who are constantly pulling at you, needing you, yet not depositing anything into you. You need to step away from that draining energy and focus completely on yourself.

I know this much - I don't want to be around anyone or have anyone in my space who is not contributing. And I don't feel right when I'm not contributing to others, but sometimes you experience those seasons where you simply have to buckle down and focus on the things you need to do for your growth and your future.

Right now we have a climate where we're talking about Terrace racism and similar issues. Everything is being displayed on social media, and sometimes, although we want to stay informed about current events, I need to disconnect from that content and quiet my mind.

I want to share with you 10 ways that you can deposit into yourself:

  1. Your health is paramount. Ensure that you prioritize proper nutrition, exercise your body, stay active, and challenge your mind.

  2. Commit to reading and learning. Expand your knowledge base and feed your intellectual curiosity.

  3. Make time for prayer and meditation. Fill your spiritual cup. Connect to something greater than yourself.

  4. Excel in your work, elevate your performance, and deliver your absolute best. I work in customer service, so I've been investing deeply in my clients. I've been giving them extra attention, giving back, making them feel valued about spending their money with me.

  5. Maintain an orderly home environment. Keep your closet organized. Don't allow clutter to accumulate. Ensure your floors are clean, your kitchen is tidy, and your refrigerator is well-maintained.

  6. Invest in things that bring you joy - perhaps fresh flowers. Take care of your skin. Get your hair styled, schedule a haircut, embrace those self-care practices.

  7. Prioritize adequate sleep and take your vitamins. Educate yourself about what your body needs. Schedule massages. Visit the chiropractor.

  8. Be intentional about your energy. Be purposeful about your presence. Be deliberate in your conversations. Be selective about who you allow into your space while you're investing in yourself.

  9. Create boundaries without feeling guilt. Learn to say "no" without explanation. Understand that "no" is a complete sentence, and protecting your peace isn't just a luxury—it's necessary for your growth.

  10. Celebrate your wins, both significant and small. Acknowledge your progress, give yourself grace when you fall short, and recognize that this journey of self-investment isn't selfish—it's essential. Understand that you cannot pour from an empty cup, and sometimes the most generous thing you can do is fill your own first.

Sometimes society makes us feel like focusing on ourselves is wrong, as if we're being selfish or neglecting others. But I'm here to tell you that depositing into yourself isn't selfish—it's survival. It's growth. It's necessary.

What ways are you depositing into yourself today? How are you ensuring your cup stays full so you can pour into others when the time is right?