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Putting Yourself First Isn’t Selfish—It’s Essential for a Stronger You

Putting Yourself First Isn’t Selfish—It’s Essential for a Stronger You
February 27, 2025

 

Every time you take a flight, you must have heard the announcement of putting your oxygen mask first. It’s practical advice, designed to keep you alive. Yet, in life, many of us do the exact opposite. This advice is a reminder about the importance of preparedness.

Many people tend to push their well-being aside to meet work deadlines, care for loved ones, and fulfil endless responsibilities. But here’s the truth—if you are not at your best, how can you truly take care of those who depend on you? Your physical, mental, and financial well-being form the foundation of a stable and fulfilling life. It all starts with you.

Costs of ignoring yourself

Ignoring your well-being might not seem like a big deal today, but over time, the effects add up. Constantly running on empty leads to exhaustion, poor decisions, and even health complications. Stress creeps in, affecting not just your productivity but also your relationships. You might feel irritable, anxious, or emotionally drained, making it harder to be present for your loved ones.

Financially, neglecting yourself can have consequences too. Without a plan, unexpected expenses can pile up, adding to the stress. Think of a parent who skips routine health check-ups due to a busy schedule, only to face a major medical issue later. The result? Higher medical costs, lost workdays, and financial strain that could have been avoided. The truth is, putting yourself last isn’t noble—it’s risky.

Your health is your wealth

If your body isn’t functioning well, everything else suffers. Regular exercise, balanced meals, and adequate sleep are not luxuries; they’re necessities. A strong body gives you the energy to work, enjoy time with family, and tackle life’s challenges. Small steps like a brisk morning walk or choosing home-cooked meals over fast food can make a difference.

Mental health is equally crucial. Stress, anxiety, and burnout are real issues. It’s easy to ignore the signs until they become overwhelming. Taking breaks, talking to loved ones, or even seeking professional support can help. A healthy mind allows you to make better decisions, stay motivated, and find joy in daily life.

Power of saying ‘no’

Many people struggle to say ‘no’—to extra work, social obligations, or even family requests. But constantly saying ‘yes’ to everything can leave you drained, both mentally and physically. Learning to set boundaries is one of the best ways to take care of yourself.

Saying ‘no’ doesn’t mean you don’t care. It simply means you recognise your limits. If you are always available for everyone else, who’s looking after you? Prioritising your well-being sometimes means turning down commitments that don’t serve you.

Whether it’s declining an unnecessary work call after hours or skipping a social event to rest, small choices can make a big difference. Protecting your time and energy isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.

Financial well-being: For you, your loved ones

Financial stability brings peace of mind. Worrying about unpaid bills or future uncertainties takes a toll on both mental and physical health. Setting aside savings, managing expenses wisely, and having a financial plan in place reduce stress. But true financial security goes beyond savings—it includes protection against the unexpected.

Life is unpredictable. A sudden illness or accident can shake everything. This is where term insurance steps in. It acts as a safety net, ensuring that if something happens to you, your family remains financially secure. While no one likes to think about worst-case scenarios, preparing for them can provide a deep sense of relief. It’s not about fear; it’s about responsibility. A small step today can protect your loved ones for years to come.

Securing your family’s future with term insurance

True financial well-being isn’t just about what you save today—it’s also about protecting tomorrow. While building wealth is important, ensuring that your loved ones remain financially stable, no matter what happens, is equally crucial. Term insurance provides that much-needed assurance. It offers a simple, affordable way to secure your family’s future, ensuring they are not burdened by financial worries in your absence.

A term plan gives your family a lump sum payout in case of an unforeseen event, helping them manage expenses, clear loans, and maintain their lifestyle. It’s a small step today that can make a world of difference for them later.

Investing in term insurance isn’t about fearing the future—it’s about taking responsibility for the people who matter most.

Taking small, meaningful steps

Prioritising yourself doesn’t mean neglecting others. It means ensuring that you are strong enough—physically, mentally, and financially—to be there for those who count on you. 

Start with five simple, actionable steps.

  1. Move more: Even 30 minutes of activity a day boosts energy and health.

  2. Eat well: Nourish your body with whole foods and hydration.

  3. Sleep enough: Rest is a non-negotiable for a sharp mind and a healthy body.

  4. Talk about stress: Share your thoughts with trusted friends or professionals.

  5. Plan your finances: Save, invest wisely, and secure your family’s future with term insurance.

A stronger you, a better life

By taking care of yourself first, you set the foundation for everything else. You become more present, more capable, and more at peace. The airline advice wasn’t just for emergencies—it’s a lesson in life. Because when you are strong, your family, career, and future all benefit.

So, ask yourself—have you put on your oxygen mask yet?

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ARN: ED/02/25/21293

Francis Rodrigues Francis Rodrigues

Francis Rodrigues has a decade long experience in the insurance sector, and as SVP, E-Commerce and Digital Marketing, HDFC Life, manages the online sales channel, as well as digital and performance marketing. He has had hands-on experience in setting up sales channels and functional teams from scratch over a career spanning 2 decades.

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Vishal Subharwal Vishal Subharwal

Vishal Subharwal heads the Strategy, Marketing, E-Commerce, Digital Business & Sustainability initiatives at HDFC Life. He is responsible for crafting and ensuring successful implementation of the overall organisation strategy.

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