Life Is Not Only About Helping Other People – It Is Also About Helping Yourself

Hello everyone! This is Tista, the new general intern for 1N5. I am currently a senior at Northern Kentucky University, majoring in Criminal Justice and minoring in Public Service.

As my graduation is approaching (December 2025), I have realized one thing. I have lived most of my college life helping other people. I have always been there for people whenever they have needed me. Moreover, I cannot even count the number of times I have adjusted my schedule and plans to accommodate someone else. But what did I get in return? I got very little help from only some of the people whom I had helped previously. Although I appreciate that, it has taught me a very important lesson.

We should not make ourselves too accessible to other people. Sometimes, it is important to prioritize yourself. Sometimes, it is okay to say that you are not available. Sometimes, it is okay when you are not able to help someone. People will always find a way to seek help, even if it isn’t from you. Self-care starts when we start to care for ourselves. Each and every individual has their own set of problems and issues to deal with. Sometimes, going out of our way to help someone else actually ends up increasing our stress. So, it is always best to put yourself first and prioritize your plans.

Hopefully, all of us will find the help that we need to live and survive in this world.