The NaBloPoMo prompt asked a very simple question: Do you do more for yourself or others. While there is no right or wrong answer, for me, I think a balance of each is the correct. I enjoy helping people and that is why I chose nursing as my profession. Answering a question, teaching or even wiping a tear from a frightened patient’s eye is part of me helping someone. I work with many elderly patients and to assist them not only lessens their anxiety but also gives me a satisfaction.
Helping my family is important but we all know the boundaries. They have their lives and I have mine. We love getting together and even helping one another. I would never interfere with their lives nor buy them everything they want or need. As my children have reached adulthood we have a great relationship and balance.
I have always had difficulty with rewarding myself. Through the past few years I have gotten better about thinking of ways to do this. I schedule time to do things like a spa day once a year, planning a vacation once a year. I may also do simple things like make time for a run or go take some photographs. I book time in my schedule to include some time for me to have fun as well as work.
Balance for me is achieved by doing things for me as well as others. Part of what makes me tick is helping others as well as me. If I only thought of myself I feel it would be selfish and granted I would have more time but some of the most important joy of my life would be gone.
Blooming Burgh Boomer 
I agree its in the balance. I think it can be hard for us women to get it.
I think we do have to work on achieving the balance but it can be done. Thanks for stopping by
I think balance in everything is a worthy objective….and you have the right idea!
Thanks! I am trying to achieve the balance. As they say practice makes it easier.
I so agree that there has to be balance in everything we do. If not we could get burned out just doing for others or if we do just for ourselves, we could just become selfish and self-centered. I have always been very much a caregiver in my personal life. Raising and caring for my family, then a second family as we raised and cared for Shantel, then caring for my mother after my father died until she finally had to go to a care center but still I go there a couple times a week to make sure all her needs are met… However, no matter how hectic my day is with caring for others, I always make it a priority to carve out at least a little time just for me to do something I enjoy doing. It keeps me sane, healthy, and happy. Great Post Kathy. Thanks for sharing.
I learned the burning out about 5 years ago. I was so wrapped up in my work I forgot to take time for me. I was so burned out it took some time to find myself again. Thanks for your support and comment
What a great post about this subject ! When our children were little many a day or week could seem imbalanced…LOL I remember those days …but as they grow up it is a good thing to make time for ourselves whenever we can.
I think for healthy family dynamics you need to find that balance. Thanks for your comment
Balance. Just the word says it all…
I agree. I know when imbalance occurs which is different than years before and now at least I can change it quickly