As the calendar turns a page to the new year, many of us participate in the tradition of setting a resolution. While customary ones focus on everything from weight loss to money management to breaking bad habits, the common denominator is clearly about improving oneself. Focusing on our well-being is essential, and committing to a new year’s self-resolution offers an effective means to success. This, in turn, enables us to play a more impactful role in the betterment of others.
Self-care is Easy to Overlook
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we tend to ignore the importance of self-care. The demands of work, family, and social obligations often leave us feeling stretched thin, with little time or energy to dedicate to our well-being. Some also believe their needs are less important and prioritize others. This couldn’t be further from the truth. For these reasons, we need to shift the focus inward and make resolutions that revolve around nurturing our physical, mental, and emotional health.
Achieving Your Self-Resolution Allows You to Help Others
Your primary goal should be to focus on your self-improvement needs. When we are at our best physically and mentally, we are better equipped to contribute positively to the world around us. It’s the classic airplane oxygen mask analogy – you must secure your mask before assisting others with theirs. Consider how the following areas of focused self-care aid in our ability to help others, too:
Physical Health
When you exercise, eat well, and get enough rest, you boost your physical resilience. A healthy body supports a healthy mind, enhancing cognitive abilities and emotional resilience. It also provides you with the extra energy necessary to help others.
Mental Well-being
This involves managing stress, finding balance, and nurturing positive thoughts. By taking time for activities you enjoy or practicing mindfulness, you develop the mental fortitude needed to navigate the complexities of life. Embodying a positive mindset creates a ripple effect, influencing those around you.
Emotional Stability
Working toward emotional stability enables you to empathize and connect with others more deeply. When you have a sense of emotional well-being, you’re better equipped to provide support, understanding, and compassion to those going through challenging times.
Get Involved with EAC Network’s Programs
A great way to empower others while still doing something healthy for yourself is by volunteering your time and being a guiding force in the lives of those who need it. According to Medical Xpress, an online website dedicated to medical research, volunteers report better physical health than non-volunteers. Volunteering also leads to lower rates of depression and anxiety, especially for people 65 and older. EAC Network has over 100 programs and services that focus on improving the lives of New Yorkers and the communities we call home.
Giving of yourself in this way is not only thoughtful, but you are assisting programs that can provide an extra level of service due to your efforts. Consider getting involved with any of EAC’s services, programs, or fundraisers and help us empower, assist, and care for those in need of support while on their journeys of self-resolution.
