Think about yourself sometimes
It's OK to put your best interest first
Being told I “don’t have a backbone,” or something along the lines of being a “pushover,” is something I’ve become all too familiar with. While I typically don’t take these remarks as compliments, I recognize I can hardly be upset by them. It’s very true that I, more often than not, concern myself with the wishes of others over my own. I must remember that, in some cases, it’s perfectly acceptable to not do so.
In attempts to fix this characteristic, driving home from school, practice, work or church the past year by myself has become critical, whether in silence or accompanied by the off-key singing of an old Taylor Swift song. Though I’m also infamous for never wanting to do anything alone, I’ve discovered that this ten to 15 minute block of time on a daily basis promotes self reflection, as well as the heavy consideration of what in my day made me the happiest. I’m then able to strive the next day to find more of whatever I’ve concluded that thing to be.
The concept of thinking about yourself usually possesses a negative connotation. No one wants to be known for their selfish or inconsiderate tendencies, and I spend an embarrassing amount of time worrying that others may think of me as unkind. But, I do believe the perfect ratio exists between caring for others and for yourself. I, as well as most busy teenagers, am constantly complaining about my lack of time, though I must remember I’m fully capable of making the time to improve my personal well-being. It doesn’t have to be hours on end, but rather a ten minute conversation with a close friend or again, a drive down Monticello. In any occasion, never feel guilty about doing things for you.