Have you heard of the saying ‘You can’t pour from an empty cup’? Self-care is much more at the forefront nowadays, but in a world that values productivity and hard work, this can be easier said than done – especially as a diligent uni student with a full timetable including lectures, assignment deadlines and, perhaps, an ever-thriving social life now that Covid restrictions have eased up.
Just as a cup can’t pour water if there’s no water in it, we can’t extend kindness or generosity to others when there’s no kindness or generosity given to ourselves – in other words, when you’re running low on reserves, your best bet is to focus on you above all else, with lots of compassion! Remember that it’s not selfish to put yourself first, so whatever the external pressures are from family, friends or tutors, it’s (more than) okay to prioritise your needs – guilt-free.
