Be an Adult for Yourself: Discovering Your Own Needs

My Journey to Self-Care

For as long as I can remember, I have been living independently. I grew up in a household where my personal needs were never the priority; instead, the focus was always on saving money at all costs. In such an environment, learning how to care for myself felt like a foreign concept. But as I grew older, I realized that being an adult for myself meant making my well-being a priority.

For the video of my story telling called "Love yourself better", check my Instagram! I will appreciate the support ♡

The Pyramid of Needs

Understanding how to take care of myself started with Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs—a concept that focuses on fulfilling different levels of needs. In the pyramid, basic needs like food, shelter, and safety form the foundation. It wasn't until I began to meet these fundamental needs that I started feeling a shift in my mental health and overall happiness.

Only once I started addressing my basic physiological and safety needs could I climb to higher levels like love and belonging, and eventually, self-actualization. Before understanding this pyramid, I constantly felt tired, burdened by negative thoughts cycling through my mind. I often asked myself, “What’s the point?” and felt an overwhelming sense of loneliness.

Recognizing My True Wants

Once I focused on my core needs, I began pondering deeper questions about what I truly wanted from life. Being an adult for myself meant taking the time to understand my desires without guilt or shame. It was difficult initially, programming myself to prioritize my wants rather than merely surviving. However, recognizing my needs allowed me to foster a sense of self-worth.

In looking back, I see how crucial it is to acknowledge and fulfill our own needs. Engaging with self-care practices like ensuring I eat well, exercise, and enjoy meaningful relationships laid the groundwork for achieving a level of contentment I desperately sought. Being an adult isn't just about responsibilities and obligations; it's about nurturing yourself—emotionally, physically, and mentally (Read again!).

Take the First Steps!

If you're wondering how to be an adult for yourself, start small. Begin by identifying your basic needs and ensuring they’re met. Consider where you're lacking. Are you getting enough sleep? Are you socializing? Are you pursuing hobbies? Challenge yourself to take baby steps in addressing what you need. As you gradually fulfill these needs, you'll likely find yourself feeling more centered and positive.

Being an adult for yourself is a continuous journey. Embrace it! Care for your needs, forgive yourself for past neglect, and show up for the most important person in your life: you. Remember, it's okay to take time for yourself—it’s a necessary investment in your overall well-being.