12 Comments
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Khalil Jezini 💜's avatar

Thanks Rich I loved the insights!

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Jarret Sharp's avatar

Rich, this is majestic and useful. Too often I’m so good at engaging with others I end up neglecting engagement with Me, the guy right here.

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Rich Dornisch 🏳️‍🌈's avatar

We often focus on others for two main reasons: because we care and because we want to avoid focusing on ourselves.

It's important to take a moment to reflect on our own needs so that we can help others more effectively.

Sometimes, we forget that if we don't take care of ourselves, we won't be able to help others.

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Jarret Sharp's avatar

It’s the oxygen mask on the airplane analogy, if I understand you correctly. We’re instructed to first apply ours, then address others?

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Rich Dornisch 🏳️‍🌈's avatar

You got it; if you can't breathe, what good can you do for others?

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Annette Gendler's avatar

Wow do I know that running-on-empty feeling! I even have a phrase and a post about it, see below. Just wanted to say thanks for addressing this, it's good to see I'm not the only one!

https://open.substack.com/pub/annettegendler/p/blee-koach?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=5lz73

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Rich Dornisch 🏳️‍🌈's avatar

It is amazing how much energy we can discover within ourselves when we want to help others.

However, it can be much harder to find that same energy when it comes to doing things for ourselves.

It’s comforting to know that we are not alone, and having a strong support system is important for those days when we struggle to take action.

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Serena Menken's avatar

Thanks for sharing this vulnerable experience and for your tips to treat ourselves kindly. I resonate with how hard it can be to notice ourselves.

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Rich Dornisch 🏳️‍🌈's avatar

Hi Serena,

Have you found an answer to your question, "If I could be truly honest with myself about how tired I am, what would I say?"

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Serena Menken's avatar

Thanks for following up, @Rich Dornisch 🏳️‍🌈 - that feels like a caring move. I am somewhat physically tired, probably more than I admit to myself. I am definitely emotionally weary. Sometimes separating the two types of fatigue is helpful for me.

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Rich Dornisch 🏳️‍🌈's avatar

Yes, the feeling of fatigue can stem from several reasons; it’s never a one-size-fits-all issue.

Understanding this can go a long way. In my experience, separating and identifying the sources of the fatigue makes it easier to address and helps me recognize when things are going in the wrong direction in my battle with depression.

Thank you for sharing!!

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Serena Menken's avatar

Agreed @Rich Dornisch 🏳️‍🌈 and it really does affect mental health. Thanks for your sharing too.

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