How many people do you know are running on empty? Exhausted, snapping at their nearest and dearest, picking up viruses, or putting on a brave public face—getting home at the end of the day to tune-out in front of the telly, self-medicating with a drink or ‘two’… or any other common coping strategies.

Unless you’re in the 1% of the population that thinks like a psychopath [1], sometimes what's good for you, is the best for others. It might sound crazy but it’s true. Putting yourself first, can be the best service you can do for your kids, partner, boss and others who lean on you.

The next time you want to do something that makes you feel good, whole, or points you towards the path that you really want in life, think; it Selfish or Self-full?

‘Self-full’ is allowing yourself to fill your own energetic and creative cup first. By filling your own energetic tank and connecting to yourself you are inviting your authentic self to be present. Your energy and inspiration then over-spills into the lives of others. Rather than running on empty, you have an authentic capacity to love, attend to, and serve others; those that you love, your family, workplace and the world around you.

Being Self-full requires boundaries. Saying no, and sometimes re-teaching the people around you what you will and won't do. Of course, these changes are most successful when expressed firmly, with sensitivity, and with a sense of compassion for yourself, and others. Consistency is the key here.

Only you can give yourself true permission to live your greatest life.

Every now and then, when your energetic and inspiration cup needs filling, be a bit Self-full; take time out for you. Prioritise putting yourself first every now and then, and watch what happens to your frame of mind, energy levels and relationships.