Put Your Own Oxygen Mask on First

By Whitney Johnson and Amy Humble for Harvard Business Review | July 6, 2020

During this challenging historical moment, many of us have been providing unprecedented emotional support to the people in our lives. But you can’t help family, friends, colleagues, or employees if you don’t first take care of yourself. So, how can you do that? Start by checking in with yourself the same way you would with others. Ask yourself questions like: How am I really doing? Am I drinking, eating, sleeping, or crying too much? What will help me combat anxiety? Am I staying connected to others? Then, develop a plan to make sure you’re meeting your own needs. Keep to a routine, and pencil in time for regular exercise or meditation — whatever works for you. Next, ask for help when you need it — if you don’t, you might find yourself feeling resentful or holding grudges. And return the favor by making yourself available to others who need help. Lastly, look for the positive. Express appreciation, give compliments, and call out triumphs, no matter how small. Not only will these expressions of positivity encourage the people around you, they’ll also help you stay optimistic and hopeful through difficult times.