INSIDE OKDHS - NEED OR WANT?

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Choosing self-care is a way to make sure your needs are met. Often it means allowing yourself to savor what you want without guilt. Self-Care is not unchecked self-indulgence, though. When you're making a decision, it's important for life balance to be aware of what is a need versus a want. What you need should not require much negotiation. You can put a permanent yes in the column of proper sleep, nutrition, exercise and support. The real and figurative costs of other choices may require a little thinking through. 

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For example, you have developed a vibrant, new love for photography. Your free time is suddenly deeply enjoyable - taking beautiful images, and delighting in giving them as gifts. You feel compelled to invest in a high-end camera. 

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Is this good self-care? Is it a need or a want? Let's look at it. Can you financially afford the new prize? Will it make your life easier or better? Will it really make a large enough difference in your art? If the answer is yes to all of these questions, it's a doable want. If not, you may choose to save up for it, or set it as a goal after your new interest has become more of a constant. 

Next, you're bringing dessert to your best friend's birthday party. You see a gorgeous cake in a posh bakery window. You visualize the celebratory dance that will erupt when you unveil it. Is this something you need to do? The cake costs $65. Are you choosing to do this just to make an impression? Would a batch of delicious cookies and some fruit be just as good? If your motivation is primarily to please others, will it make much difference once the dazzling cake is eaten? This choice is a want. Make sure your wants are aligned with your authentic self. The cost should reflect the value of the outcome. 

Finally, your sister has asked you to help her move but your back has been out all week. You don't want to let her down. Is helping her a need or a want? Is the painful cost to yourself worth the benefit to your sister? To care well for yourself you have to negotiate. You feel you need to do this and you want to do this. You can certainly help, but make it clear in advance that you can't assist with any heavy lifting. You have honored your commitment without damaging yourself. 

Self-Care is all about balance. If you need help striking a good balance in your emotional, physical or financial life, the Employee Assistance Program is here for you with up to six cost-free, confidential, professional visits a year.

No Audio: Human Resources Management Division.  Laree Reidenbaugh 405.522.6005.  Rick Combs 405.522.8591. 

To find out more, contact the Human Resources Management Division. Take time for balance and take time to take care. 

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