I learned three important words to add to my vocabulary. Not my problem (NMP – remember that acronym.)

I read the book One Minute For Myself by Spenser Johnson, MD. In it, the author encourages us to take one minute to change our attitude, then ask ourselves if there is a way to take better care of ourselves right now. “Taking one minute for myself leads me to think better and do things better than I used to. The more I take good care of myself, the less resentment and anger I feel, and the more loving I become towards myself and others.”

It got me thinking. (Of course, right? That’s what I do!) I do take one minute for myself, so why am I not doing the things I genuinely want to do? I realized I was taking on pressures and stress that I didn’t deserve. What I mean by that is like in the book, One Minute For Myself, by taking good care of yourself, you feel less resentment and anger. It makes sense. When you are happy, you create more happy experiences. Seriously, it’s that easy. We feel happy when we care for ourselves, listen to that inner voice that tells us what we want, and be the creator of our lives instead of allowing other things to do that for us.

So, thinking “not my problem” is not being a selfish jerk. Depending on the situation -, if there were an emergency, we would step up and do something. I am referring to the things that take you away from doing something that makes you happy. For example, say (or think) NMP to those who take advantage of your kindness and lean on you too much to meet their needs. If it interferes with your happiness or joy, it’s not your problem. You have better things to do than get mixed up with that.

Save yourself time and even your sanity by standing up for your attention. Say, NMP to the hamper if you don’t feel like doing laundry because you have more important things to do. It’s okay. We got sucked into this idea of perfection too much from media outlets (television, magazines, etc.) We don’t need to beat ourselves up if we don’t adhere to a household schedule. That’s been a “problem” for me, spending too much time tending to the house and yard responsibilities. Now, I look at something vying for my attention and say or think, “not my problem now.” You can’t let things go too long. For me (with cleaning), letting one or two days go by after the scheduled day is enough. I have to get it done.  Also, delegate chores if you have the opportunity to do so. My guy helps with anything I ask of him.

Save yourself from allowing other people’s drama to become your drama.  Say or think, “not my problem,” and teach others that your time is valuable and you treat it that way. It took me a long time to realize this. If I can do this, anyone can.

Save yourself from putting yourself last and get to the front line.  Say or think, “not my problem,” when you begin to feel guilty if someone wants something from you that is unreasonable or disrespecting your time.

Do you have any ways you save yourself? Leave a comment. I’d love to know!  Thank you for reading this.

To Saving Yourself,

Francesca