Most of us are pretty good at taking care of business, our responsibilities, loved ones, and work tasks.  But what about us?  Remembering to take care of ourselves can be a daunting task.  Our "to do" lists are long and often involve taking care of others.  We can get left behind. So, sometimes we need some tricks to help us take care of ourselves.

Here is a simple trick that will take about 10 minutes to prepare, 2 minutes to carry out and pretty much guarantee you will remember to take care of yourself a little bit more each day.

The Me Bag

The Me Bag can be a bag, a drawer, a basket, a box, even a file.  It needs to be something you can get to easily during your day.

The Set Up

Take 10 minutes and fill your "Me Bag" with simple things that lift you up.  Allow me to explain.  Letters written to you filled with compliments.  Tea bags, favorite snacks.  Pictures of special times.  Hand lotion with a scent you love.  Music (think i-pod) that moves or excites you.

A short story.  When I was a new therapist, I needed a lot of encouragement.  It's a tough job and what did I know?  Someone suggested I create a positive file.  Kind letters, recommendations, etc.  That positive file grew and grew.  I would reach into it when I was down or unsure of myself.  Fortunately, I had the sense to add to it.  Pictures, even some of my favorite treats found their way into that file.  But what a gift it was to me.  Whenever I needed a little perk, I could just dig in and lift myself up.

The Doing

Once you set up a file or box like this, make sure it is at fingers reach and then make sure you pick something out every day.  Teach yourself to do "one thing" out of your Me Bag every day.  In no time, the idea of putting yourself on the top of the list will be the norm.  Just remember to practice every day.

Increase the Supply

When you can, add to the list.  A sweet note from your kids.  An article that makes you laugh. A list of your accomplishments or strengths.  How wonderful.

Try it.  Take 10 minutes and set up a Me Bag just perfect for you.  Then make sure you dig in daily and keep filling it up as you go.  Easy and a sure way to build yourself up, in only minutes a day.

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