Let’s talk about you for a moment. Yes, you—the person who shows up for everyone else, whose heart seems to expand infinitely to hold others’ struggles, dreams, and everything in between.
I see you.
You’re a natural caretaker, a beacon of hope, and likely juggling a to-do list that feels longer than the Nile. But here’s the truth: you can’t pour from an empty cup.
The world needs your light, but you need to prioritize yourself first if you want to keep shining. That’s why I’m sharing The 3 Bs—three simple tools to help you stay balanced, energized, and ready to make the impact you’re here to make.
1. Breath: Your Portable Calm Button
Your breath is the most powerful tool you’ll ever have. It’s with you from the moment you’re born to your final day, and it’s completely free.
The beauty of breath is that it’s always accessible, no matter where you are. Feeling overwhelmed? Stuck in a moment of chaos? Your breath is there to bring you back to center.
Try this:
• Take a deep inhale and let your belly expand like a balloon.
• Hold it for a moment.
• Exhale slowly and completely, letting the tension melt away.
Repeat this a few times and notice how your shoulders drop, your heart steadies, and your mind clears. Just a couple of deep breaths can completely shift your energy and perspective.
2. Boundaries: The Secret to Sustainable Giving
I know the word boundaries can feel intimidating, especially for natural givers like you. But hear me out: boundaries aren’t about shutting people out—they’re about showing others how to honor your energy.
Here’s the reality: when you set boundaries, you’re doing others a favor. You’re giving them a clear guide on how to interact with you and protecting your ability to give from a place of love, not depletion.
A helpful mindset: Think of your energy as a daily bank account. Start each day with 100% energy (though some days, that 100% might feel smaller than others). Your goal is to spend wisely so you have 30% left by bedtime. This ensures you have enough energy to sleep well and recharge for the next day.
And remember, “no” is a complete sentence.
Not sure how to say no? Try this:
• To your boss: “I hear how important this is. Can we look at my current priorities together? There’s a lot in motion right now, and I want everything done right. I’ll need to press pause on other projects, or we’ll need someone else to take this on.”
• To a friend or colleague: “I’ve been burning the candle at both ends and promised myself I wouldn’t take on one more thing until I’ve had time to rest.”
Simple, honest, and clear.
3. Balance: Progress, Not Perfection
Balance isn’t about achieving perfection; it’s about creating harmony in your life. It’s a dance, not a destination.
One way to find balance is to align yourself with nature. Mother Earth provides everything we need in every season. In winter, for example, think grounding foods like root vegetables, hearty stews, and warming spices. These foods help counter the cold and keep you nourished and energized.
And if you’re feeling frazzled or stuck? Shake it out! Seriously—stand up, shake your arms, legs, and entire body for a few seconds. It’s a playful way to release stress and reset your energy.
Takeaway: You Deserve to Thrive
You are here to do incredible, soul-driven work, but you can’t do it while running on empty. Use these 3 Bs to come back to yourself—your breath, your boundaries, and your balance.
Start small. You don’t have to implement everything at once. Try one thing today—maybe a deep breath or saying no to something that doesn’t align with your energy. Your future self will thank you, and so will everyone who benefits from your light.
Remember: You matter, and your well-being is important to important as the work you’re here to do and the people you encounter along the way.