Most of us have a long list of people, pets, places, and projects we put before our own needs. Sometimes, I think it’s amazing we even get around to brushing our teeth each day after we do so much for everyone else!

Girlfriend guru Lisa McDaniel Brown asks (and answers) the timeless question of how to take some time for yourself (and why it’s so important).

Here’s a simple question — What have you done for yourself lately? Like, today. Or even this week.

Go ahead and think about it. We’ll wait. (Whistle, whistle, whistle.)

Isn’t it time to put yourself first?

For several years I produced and managed women’s health conferences across the country. While doing this I learned that the “pyramid of priorities” in a typical American woman’s life looks something like this:

Kids

Family

Job

Husband

Pets

Self

Yes, even your dog and the hamster are typically more important than you in your own life.

WHAT? WHY?

Girlfriend, it is time to pamper yourself! What’s the old saying, “If momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.”

When our own needs are met, it is much easier to meet the needs of others who depend on us. In other words, you MUST make it a priority to take time for yourself (& maybe even take some time for your girlfriends!).

• Go get a pedicure
• And a manicure
• A massage
• Go to the gym
• Go for a run
• Take a walk
• Do a girls night out
• Go to the mall and shop with a friend
• Read that book you’ve always wanted to read

Do something that will bring a smile to your face and bring a feeling of calm to your life. You have our permission. And I’m sure you’ve earned it!

LISA MCDANIEL BROWN is a health and nutrition expert. Before blogging and speaking, Lisa was a broadcaster, PR/Marketing professional, and event planner with a degree in Communications. Her passion for health and well-being was nurtured from an early age – her father was a physician who specialized in weight control and longevity (and he’s still alive and thriving at age 97). Lisa grew up thinking everyone knew how to eat well and live their best life!

What have you done for YOU lately? How have you spent time on yourself and/or with your girlfriends?

Thanks Lisa for sharing! Check out her previous guest posts: New Years Resolutions, Healthy Holiday Tradition, and Uh Oh – I forgot to eat healthy today!

By the way, we LOVE guest blogs here at Girlfriendology. Have a great girlfriend story to tell? Want to celebrate your fabulous female friends? SHARE! (And, we also have Girlfriend Gurus – check that out to be featured on Girlfriendology!)

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