“Oxygen Mask First” → Only when you breathe easy can you help others do the same

I grew up in an Asian household where responsibility was a badge of honor. As a child, I was responsible for my studies. As I grew older, I was expected to be a hardworking employee, a dutiful child, and a present parent.

“Your family depends on you.”

I’m sure many of you have felt the same weight of countless responsibilities resting on your shoulders.

But here’s the truth we often forget: “you depend on you.”

Just like the pre-flight safety briefing reminds us—put your own oxygen mask on first before helping others—self-care is not indulgence, it’s survival. It’s the foundation that allows you to show up fully for those who count on you.

For me, even at my busiest, I carve out time for little acts of self-care: a walk around the block, an hour lost in a good show, or a simple meal with a friend. Lately, I’ve also found that:
✨ Setting boundaries (and learning to say no) protects my energy.
✨ Prioritizing sleep keeps me sharper and more present.

Self-care doesn’t have to be big or expensive. It just has to be consistent—and it has to start with you.

So I’ll ask you: what are you doing for your self-care this week?

#SelfCare #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #MentalWellness #YouDependOnYou