Treat Yo' Self : 2017 Reflection

As 2017 heads to a close, I reflect on the amazing blessings I've received this year. I am so grateful for my family, my friends, my health, and this amazing career called OT. This was my first full year working as a peds OT. I've actually worked in 3 different schools this past year. And I can't believe how much I've learned and grown so far.

I truthfully used to struggle so much viewing things as an OT. Being able to recognize the areas where people needed help and coming up with my own treatment ideas. This used to be a huge challenge for me. Now I do so joyfully and creatively, actually pushing myself to think of things that would not only benefit my patients but help put a smile on their face as well.

One major lesson I can take from this year is learning how to take care of myself. In this field, taking care of others and tending to people's needs is always the priority- right? But I've found that the more I take care of myself and really make sure that I'm in a good place- physically, mentally, and spiritually, the better I'm able to truly care for others.

The week before winter break, I was actually reaching my breaking point. With this new blog and more responsibilities piling up with my job, I was starting to feel really burt out. Getting to treat and care for others is one of my greatest joys with this career, but it can also be very exhausting, constantly giving yourself to others. I was getting hard giving my best self not only to my students, but to my loved ones and family as well.

I've never looked so forward to a vacation (which  I felt was well deserved). I chose to spend my winter break not thinking about work at all! Enjoying real quality time with my family, going to mass, making new christmas traditions / games, seeing a broadway show, sweating / freezing at a korean spa, bar hopping in NYC,  enjoying post-christmas sales, buying things for myself, and eating lots n' lots of food. I had so much fun just doing things for me. I even chose to do a DIY craft project for myself  which I'm excited to share with you! (Separate post coming soon). 

Regardless, 2017 was a wonderful year for me. I'll be coming into the new year with a new sense of peace. Remembering the importance of self-care in health-care. Don't forget to treat yo' self!