Nicola Johnson Coaching

How was your weekend? Do you even remember it?
Take a moment. When you read that question, did you have to stop and think back — even just a little — to recall what you did, how it felt, or whether it was meaningful?

If so, you’re not alone.

The Rhythm We Fall Into

Most of us go through our days attending meetings, completing tasks, and shifting straight into the next thing — family time, exercise, social plans, dinner — without really slowing down. Before we know it, another day has passed, and we’re back at it again.

In conversations I’ve been having with clients, a pattern is emerging:
We’re going through life without really being present.

We’re not fully conscious of:

• What we’re doing
• How we’re doing it
• Or why we’re doing it

And perhaps most importantly, we’re often not fully present with ourselves — at work or at home.

Why Does This Matter?

You might be thinking: So what? Everyone’s busy. That’s life.

But here’s the truth:
When we move through life unconsciously, there are consequences — and they sneak up on us.

We burn out without realizing we’re on that path.
We grow used to a lack of energy and assume it’s normal.
We stop asking whether the life we’re living is the one we actually want.

I could list more, but I’d rather focus on something more useful:
How to shift.

Start With Your Own Oxygen Mask

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Put your own oxygen mask on first.”
It’s cliché — because it’s true.

Taking care of yourself first doesn’t make you selfish; it makes you capable. Present. Available. Human.

But what if we went even further?
What if you chose to “wear your oxygen mask” every day — not just when the plane’s going down?

What Would It Look Like to Put Yourself First?

Now, I get it — putting yourself first every day might not be realistic.

But just for today, play along:
Imagine a full day where you prioritized your own well-being.

What would you do with that day?
Make a list — ten things, just for you.

Here’s mine:

• Yoga
• Run
• Ride my road or mountain bike
• Pilates
• Strength training
• Gardening
• Enjoy meals with family
• Spend time with friends
• Sit on my porch and enjoy the view
• Meditate
• Write or create video content

(Okay, that’s more than ten — but you get the idea.)

Your Turn

What’s on your list?

And even more importantly:
What’s one thing you’re willing to do today to put yourself first?

Just one. Start there. Because presence — real, conscious, nourishing presence — starts with you.