As people living in 2010, there is always so much to do!  We have careers, we have children, lots of things that need to be done, or things to take care of.  Some of us are taking care of our parents AND our children.  Everybody has a to-do list. 

We spend a lot of time MAINTAINING.  What are we maintaining?  Well, we maintain our house by keeping it clean.  We vaccuum and dust and wash floors to keep everything clean and sanitary.  When the lawn needs to be mowed, we make sure that gets done -- we want the house to be presentable.  We keep the garden weeded in summer and sidewalks shovelled in winter.  We maintain our vehicles by getting the oil changed when necessary, keeping gas in the car, and washing it every so often.  We spend a lot of money on clothes so we can look good and feel good about ourselves. 

But when it comes to maintaining yourSELF, are you investing the time you need to keep yourSELF healthy?  

Most of the things that people spend time and money maintaining are material things.  In most cases, they can be replaced.  But the one thing that is typically at the bottom of everybody's list is themSELF. 

What will happen if you don't put yourself on your to-do list?  If you don't make the time for yourSELF to exercise?  If you can't spend the time or money on healthy, nutritious foods for yourSELF?  Or, if you just don't take the time to make yourSELF healthy meals? 

If yourSELF is always at the bottom of your list, and you aren't spending time maintaining your health through excercise and healthy eating, at some point, your body will slowly start to break down. 

But what if you put yourself at the top of your list?   What if you could wake up 45 minutes earlier, and go for a brisk 30 minute walk to start your day?  You would feel energized, and I guarantee, your mood would be better as you begin your day.   If it's freezing cold outside, maybe you would prefer to start your day with a 30-minute light yoga DVD?

Isn't this selfish?  Putting yourSELF at the top of your list?  No way!  It's the least selfish thing.  You need to take care of yourself so you can be the best person you can be.  You'll be a better parent, since you'll be setting a healthy example for your kids.  And you'll decrease your chances of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and increase your life expectancy.  Your family and friends want you around as long as possible.  

Go ahead, put yourSELF at the TOP of your to-do list.  You'll feel better about yourself, have more energy, and be healthier overall.  And, you deserve it!