I was flying to Phoenix the other day. I typically ignore the flight attendant’s spiel (because I fly all the time), but this time, something struck me. During the security information, they stress, “Please secure your own mask before assisting others,” and they show you a parent securing their own mask before assisting the child with them.
Very powerful image. A parent securing their own mask before assisting their child.
My first thought was, “there’s not a mother on earth who would consciously secure their own mask first, before their kids”, and my second thought was, “that’s a sexist-jerk thing to say, Becca, because dads would probably feel the same way.” Kids first. My children first. It’s a beautiful thing.
But there’s a reason why they want you to secure your own mask first. (And this isn’t aimed at parents in a crisis, because you’ll do whatever your default is, in a crisis, no matter what Delta tells you to do. But stick with me here.)
When you are compromised, you can’t help others. When your oxygen intake is inhibited, that makes your brain function poorly. They want you functioning at your best, so you can help others at your best. They want you to not kill yourself trying to save other people.
It’s important for you to think of your self-care. Especially if your goal is to help others. You can’t help anyone when you’re compromised, yourself. Or, you can, but it will kill you.
So do the world a favor, people. Secure your own mask first. You’re not helping anyone when you’re ignoring your own self-care. You really do need to take care of yourself.
Secure your mask. First.
Then. Help others.