Typically, we in HR are care-givers. We’re constantly making sure that everybody else is OK. Many of us are, by nature, nurturers; let’s admit it. I say that without any apologies whatsoever. We often are the much-needed heart of the company and we can’t lose that.

But who’s nurturing you? Who is taking care of your needs? Ultimately, only you can make sure that you are taken care of.

The simple challenge of this article is for you to be proactive and take practical steps in the direction of self-care. We’ve all heard the inflight announcement; first you put on your own oxygen mask and then you can help others. Are you doing that?

Here is a practical exercise to help you move toward improved self-care:

• Carve out some time by yourself, completely alone
• Find a quiet place
• Get quiet. Calm down. Think.
• “What are my core values right now at this time in my life?”
• “Am I honoring those values?”
• “If not, why not?”
• “What is at least one thing that I can do to honor just one of these top values?”
• Commit to it. (You may need to delete something that conflicts. Tough, but may be critical.)

I know that I make is sound simple. But, friends, if you are not honoring your highest life priorities, then your life may be out of whack. And you’re ultimately not serving yourself or others. We all know this and it takes a visceral commitment to move in a new direction.

Are you in danger of “gaining the world, but losing your soul?” Jump off the hamster wheel for a moment, stop, pause, think and honor yourself.