DOING THINGS FOR YOURSELF

 Doing Things for Yourself: A Personal Journey

In a world where external validation often takes precedence, it's easy to find ourselves doing things primarily for the approval or admiration of others. This realization hit me recently when I noticed that much of what I do is influenced by how others might perceive it. Rarely do I engage in activities solely for the purpose of making myself happy. This tendency to seek external validation has been a part of my life since childhood, when I would only complete my homework if it was going to be checked. As an adult, I find myself prioritizing my actions based on who I want to impress, rather than focusing on my own well-being and satisfaction.

The Struggle for Self-Priority

Understanding this pattern, I recognize that I lack priority for myself. Announcing my goals and struggling to keep them because no one is tracking my progress is a recurring theme. This struggle stems from my childhood habit of doing things only when they would be validated by others. When it comes to working on my body, I find myself driven by the desire to impress others rather than my own health and happiness.

The Importance of Self-Priority

Prioritizing yourself is crucial for overall well-being and fulfillment. Doing things for yourself, rather than for others, allows you to live authentically and find true happiness. It is important to break free from the cycle of seeking external validation and focus on what genuinely makes you happy.

 Remedies for Prioritizing Yourself

1. Set Personal Goals: Define what you want to achieve for yourself, independent of others' opinions. Focus on personal growth and self-improvement.

2. Practice Self-Reflection: Regularly take time to reflect on your motivations and actions. Ask yourself if you are doing something for your own happiness or for the approval of others.

3. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. Recognize that your progress is valuable, even if it goes unnoticed by others.

4. Create a Personal Accountability System: Develop a system to track your progress that doesn't rely on external validation. This could be a journal, a habit tracker, or setting reminders for yourself.

5. Engage in Activities You Enjoy: Spend time doing things that bring you joy and fulfillment. These activities should be chosen based on your interests and passions, not on how they might be perceived by others.

6. Surround Yourself with Supportive People: Build a network of friends and family who support your goals and encourage you to prioritize yourself. Their encouragement can help you stay focused on what truly matters to you.

7. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and recognize that it's okay to make mistakes and learn from them. Self-compassion can help you stay motivated and committed to your personal goals.

8. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to activities or commitments that do not align with your personal goals and values. Setting boundaries can help you focus on what is truly important to you.

Finding a balance between seeking external validation and prioritizing yourself is a journey that requires self-awareness and intentional effort. By focusing on what genuinely makes you happy and setting personal goals, you can break free from the cycle of doing things for others' approval. Embrace the journey of self-priority and discover the fulfillment that comes from living authentically and for yourself.

Remember, true happiness comes from within. Prioritize yourself, celebrate your progress, and engage in activities that bring you joy. By doing so, you will create a life that is meaningful and fulfilling, based on your own terms and not on the expectations of others.