Put your own oxygen mask on first.
We all know the rule. Almost none of us live by it.
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In short
The oxygen mask rule says: secure your own mask before helping others, because you can't help anyone once you run out of air. In daily life it means looking after your own energy first. It is not selfish. It is the only way to have something left to give to your work, your family and your friends.
Who puts your mask on?
Two minutes for yourself: breathe with your friend →
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Transcript
AI-generated video: the voice and the images were created with AI. How we use AI
Every flight tells you the same thing. Put your own mask on first. Then help others. We nod. And then we spend our lives doing the opposite.
We give our energy to everyone. Work. Family. Friends. And we wonder why there is nothing left.
It's not selfish to come first. It's the only way you'll have anything left to give.
So tonight, ask yourself one honest question: who puts your mask on?
I feel five. Everything else is noise.
Questions people ask
Is it selfish to put yourself first?
No. Looking after your sleep, rest and energy is what makes it possible to keep showing up for others. Running on empty helps no one for long.
Where does the oxygen mask rule come from?
From the safety briefing on every flight: if the cabin loses pressure, put on your own oxygen mask before helping others, even your children.
What does "put your own oxygen mask on first" mean?
It means looking after your own energy, sleep and limits before you try to carry everyone else. You can only keep giving if something is left in you.
How do I start putting myself first without feeling guilty?
Start small and specific: one protected hour, one honest no, one early night this week. Notice that the people around you get a calmer, more present version of you, not less of you.