Sometimes I get caught up in my work. It all seems urgent, and I want to please others, and there’s always one more thing to do. But when I let my whole day pass that way, I might find that my performance is suffering.

Maybe I’m having trouble making a decision, or I’m starting to get frustrated with something small. When that happens, it’s good to ask myself if I’ve met my own basic needs that day. Did I eat enough today? Have I gotten some exercise? Have I taken a break?

If I’m struggling today, I will remember the acronym HALT: have I allowed myself to get too Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired? Just acknowledging my current state can help me move through the day a lot better. If there’s a need of mine I can meet right now, I will. If I have a need that has to wait, I’ll take the time to nurture myself as soon as I can.