I'm writing this piece after a lengthy conversation with a friend of mine, I hope you enjoy reading and sharing - as this might help someone you know, who is constantly pouring into others but never leaves enough for themselves.
xo Sarah xo
Are you that person who pours so much into helping everyone else (which is not a bad thing) but when it comes to pouring into yourself, you are completely empty, completely worn out and drained! You literally have nothing left for you :(
The question this week is, is there anything left in your cup?
How do you stay fuelled up when the everything around you seems to be taking from your energy??????
The first thing you need to do is to be self aware. Don't wait until you are running on empty! Self awareness will help you realise when it's time to fuel up.
Do you know your source of fuel?
It's so important to know what your source of fuel is and to make sure that you are fuelled for your lifestyle. There is nothing wrong with being the constant adviser, the helper, the financial giver etc but you need to leave something for yourself. Most of the time we give and give until we are completely empty and then we start to feel uneasy or uncomfortable with life. You shouldn't live that way.
Be mindful that people might want more from you than you can actually give, it's ok to say No, especially if it could cause damage to your mental or physical health.
Protect your inner peace and protect your inner sanctuary.
If you feel under pressure then it's time to re-fill your cup and never allow yourself to get to the point where you are completely stripped of all your energy! It's ok to be selfish, sometimes you need to be selfish in order to refuel.
If you don't refuel then people will be waiting for you but you'll be running on empty and they won't even know because all they do is continue to take from whatever energy you have left - a very vicious cycle-
It's like when you are thirsty, you go and find a drink to quench your thirst. But if you don't do something about your prolonged thirst then it could create a worse situation like extreme dehydration and the situation could get so much worse. This is the same when your 'life' cup is running on empty! You will need to do what works best for you to make sure that you are able to keep going.
You might be in a position where everyone around you wants you to pour into them but you need to really look around and take counsel in those who are equally pouring into you.
Proverbs 11:14 - Where no advice is, the people fall; but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
If you are someone else's source then make sure you have your own source too! Don't just be someone who takes from another but be a blessing in the life of another too! Not just materialistically but also spiritually by praying for a friend or even just by being a good listener.
You don't always have to be the one speaking, listening is equally as important!
Be good to those who are pouring into you & if there isn't anyone pouring into you then you should take time out to pour into yourself. Find what works best for you.
Pray - go on a self retreat - meditate - aid a better sleep pattern -
Alexis Oladipo is the founder of the phenomenal brand - Gym Bites, which is a healthy snack for those on the go, which is stocked in Selfridges - http://www.gymbites.co.uk/
Check out a few words from Alexis below:
What/who keeps you inspired?
My mum keeps me inspired and then my family and then my unborn children and then those who are watching. I do it all for them because I have to give back one way or another, if not physically, at the very least Spiritually.
I do what I do because I believe that God has called me for a purpose and I believe that I must fulfil that purpose which is to break the boundaries and step out in faith and glory, achieving things that are beyond mine or anyone's imagination and with that inspiring those around me, especially young women.
How do you keep going during the tough times?
I remember what God has promised me through His word and what He's called me to do. I also often have to remind myself that God is bigger than ANY problem or circumstance I may be facing. I learnt that last year when I was going through some financial and personal difficulties. It was a big lesson for me and now I live by it and remember it whenever I'm having a bad or difficult day. In all things it's a must to stay positive and give thanks!
Psalm 23 - ...my cup overflows