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I have always understood that controlling myself is the one thing I can do, and that "crisis" is a subjective term. However, learning and thinking about "chaos triggers" was something new to me.

Like the chaplain, I have worked in fields that others thought was tough, and wasn't overwhelmed and also found myself being triggered by something completely minor.

I really enjoyed the idea of personalizing "chaos" to help me understand why some situations bring out the best and others the worst in me.

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The average person sees 25,000 mornings. I used to believe that self care mattered because without taking care of myself, I couldn't take care of others. And that is true.

What is also true is that I deserve to be cared for.

And for me, when I am feeling cared for, it sparks joy, creativity, love, energy, and connection in my soul. It draws me out and from that place I speak life and joy into others. It moves me in the complete opposite mindset from where I am with my "chaos triggers" even when chaos happens.

I'm not just a better helper. I am a better human.

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Later in life, I learned the difference between purpose, plan, and placement. Plan is the how and what you do. Placement is the where. But purpose is the why. And that why transcends plan and placement. It is the thing that can not be taken from you and must be nourished and cared for. It is the prioritizing for activity and the measuring stick for success. It is not concerned with outcomes- the wins and losses of the game- but rather the character and intention of the players.

For me, my purpose is simple: To try and leave it better than I found it.

It understands that I may not be successful, fix everything, accomplish all I dream about, or achieve the impossible. But it does ask me to look for the good, practice empathy and humility, be intentional with my words, and stay positive.

So reminding myself daily through affirmation, feeding my soul more of what helps me achieve my purpose, and avoiding the drains that make it harder on me to be positive, is one practice for my self care.

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SELF CARE STRATEGY 2: Start the Night Off Right

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SELF CARE STRATEGY 2: Start the Night Off Right

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My good mornings actually start the night before. Everything I think about incorporating into my daily care routine: meditation, moderate exercise, healthy eating, patience, reading, etc. all start with me going to be bed at a reasonable time before.

It requires me to stop wasting time scrolling and intentionally relax.

As a natural morning person, I wake up early regardless of the day. When I haven't had a decent amount of sleep, I am much more likely to be cranky, impatient, hungry, and just ready to be alone.

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Be aware of chaos triggers and realize that rain and sun are needed for growth.

Speaking life and goodness into myself and others is a direct indicator that my self care is working and I am maintaining a good balance. I am giving and living a purposeful life out of the abundance of joy I have curated in my own life.