Put Yourself First, or Get Left Behind

Everybody wants a piece of you, your time, your energy, your attention. 

They’ll frame it as love, loyalty, or “just one quick favor,” but really, it’s access. 

The thing about access is, once people get used to it, they stop appreciating it.

That’s why you gotta take care of you first. 

Before the calls. Before the texts. Before the fake “check-ins” that lead to a request. 

Protect your energy like it’s currency, because it is. If you keep spending it on people who never plan to deposit back into you, don’t act surprised when you’re broke.

Being a good person doesn’t mean being a doormat. 

Let people be disappointed. 

Let them assume. 

Let them talk. 

But never let them drain you. Especially not before you’ve filled yourself up.

Prioritize yourself. Tend to your mind. Guard your peace. Say no without guilt. Choose rest without explanation.

Because in a world full of users, your first job is making sure you’re not the one getting used.

Written by Ajani Brathwaite