Tip #10: "Put on your own mask first..." a.k.a. Self-care

One of the opportunities that we get when working remotely/from home for extended periods of time is to reflect. I also acknowledge that reflection can also take us down a rabbit hole of unresolved thoughts, insecurities and feelings. But there comes a point in time, especially when living by ourselves and under social isolation/quarantine conditions, when we can no longer avoid facing ourselves and these unresolved thoughts.

My tip for today arises from this "zone" that we may eventually reach.
Be kind with yourself. It is okay to feel insecure and unsure during such times. If we gently turn our attention to ask ourselves "why" we are feeling that way, we can understand a great deal about ourselves. Sometimes, meditation helps with this and during other cases, we may need to seek counselling and help from therapists. It is perfectly okay to do so. No judgment -- this is about accepting yourself for the amazing person that you are.

When we slowly start to understand ourselves and our actions, we are able to take action with full awareness of the current moment, i.e. we become more mindful of everything we *choose* to do. There is an emphasis on choose here because we make a choice every moment. Recognizing that we have a choice and that we can choose to - slowly and gently - let go of any toxic thoughts or feelings helps us focus on being present. In the moment. Taking good care of ourselves and those around us.

Remember the airplane announcement -- "In case of emergency, oxygen masks will drop from the ceiling. Always put on your own mask before you help the person sitting next to you." -- or a variant of this :)

You have to take care of yourself. Make a conscious choice now to focus on your well-being, to take stock of the situation and to focus on appreciating life. You are an amazing human being. Recognize that and know that you have the strength to carry on.

Be kind. Be present. Be you.

Take care, and may the Force be with you!