The good news, though, is you do have the power to reclaim and drive your own life. If you choose to learn the following and apply the lessons found in each step, then you can begin to regain control of your life:
Step 1: Be Selfish
Step 2: Say No
Step 3: Step Away
Step 4: No More Excuses
Step 5: Look Forward – Not Back
Step 1: Be Selfish
Contrary to popular
belief, it’s okay to be selfish as long as you do it in moderation. The first thing you need to remember is that the only way you can be a positive influence in the lives of people around you is if you first become a positive influence on yourself. By becoming more selfish, you force yourself into a position where you consider what will make you a better person. By default, this will usually have a positive effect on the people in your life.
There are many productive ways to practice being selfish. The first, and most important way, is to simply begin taking care of you. Watch what you eat and try to exercise when you can. In fact, make time during your day to take care of yourself. Adjust your schedule and tell others you will not be available for a period of time so you can take a walk or go to the gym.
There is a meaningful correlation between how you feel about yourself and you feel about life. Depression and a sense of a lack of control begin to seep into your thoughts and attitudes. You may know full well the feelings I referring to – it’s the feeling in your gut when you know you are not doing what you could do to take better care of yourself, but you don’t have the energy, or the feeling of control, to do any thing about it. I would suggest you start by taking small baby steps at first. Make a better food choice at lunch – this is certainly applying a level of control; take a walk after dinner instead of heading for the couch and television – this is another level of control you are exerting.
Indeed, be selfish. Do things that are better for you and will lead to feeling better about yourself and your life. Refrain from cutting corners. Purposeful selfishness will give you the confidence and momentum necessary to begin regaining control of your life.
Next: Say No
