Too often, we feel like we are at the hands of our friends, family and authorities. And while it is nice to help and give to others, it seems as though most of us have forgotten about ourselves.

It seems selfish to stay home from school or parties just because you don’t want to go. It seems arrogant to do something just because you want to. It seems rude to say “no.” But say “no.” I, especially as a high schooler, am not there to constantly please others. And as mean as it sounds, we have to be realistic – I’m not going to talk to half of these people in a year. So why put all of my time into making sure they get what they want?

I’m not saying that you should constantly be in “me” mindset, because that is selfish. And I’m especially not saying to be rude to others just because you don’t care, because that is arrogant. I only think that we need to spend a little time every once in awhile on ourselves.

Self-care is so fundamental, and I think that ideology gets lost in the midst of a competitive community like Blue Valley. Grades are so important that we forget to take a nap. Sports are so important that we forget to eat dinner. Social life is so important that we forget to read a book.

I am here to tell you, it’s okay to prioritize yourself and do these things.

Sometimes, the main step in doing this, is to stop saying sorry. It’s hard, but it’s necessary to express yourself in a way that isn’t self-deprecating. Next, put your phone down. Stop checking your grades, emails and texts. Instead, go out – try a new place to eat, walk your dog (or cat, I suppose) and go shopping. Or maybe what you need is inside – take a bath, listen to that new album and get an extra hour of sleep.

Allow yourself to have “me time” and stop forgetting to put yourself first sometimes.