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The Oxygen Mask theory

The Oxygen Mask theory

February 06, 20251 min read


👉“Put on your own oxygen mask first before assisting others.” – Airline Safety Instruction (and a great life lesson!)

📌 THE OXYGEN MASK THEORY

Many people feel guilty for putting themselves first.

While selflessness is admirable, chronic self-neglect is unhealthy.

👌Many of us develop the habit of putting ourselves last as a way to stay safe, be accepted, or avoid conflict.

👉Putting ourselves last often goes back to our childhood, especially if we grew up feeling like our needs didn’t matter or that our worth was tied to taking care of others. 

Some of us took on the caretaker role early in life, always putting ourselves second (or last).  

Over time, this can make self-care feel selfish—even though it’s NOT.  

🏆 But here’s the truth: Your needs matter too!

👑You deserve rest, love, and care just as much as anyone else. 

👉Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean you’re neglecting others—it means you’re building the strength to show up fully for them AND for yourself! 

🏆 It’s okay to set boundaries. It’s okay to say no. 

🏆 It’s okay to put on YOUR OWN oxygen mask first!!!

👌You’re not being selfish—you’re healing. And that’s a beautiful thing.  

💕Be kind to yourself. You’re worthy of the same love you give soooo freely to others.

📌 The Oxygen Mask theory is the idea that you must take care of yourself first before you can effectively help others.

Keep shining and keep smiling ✨️✨️ 

Have a super powerful day 🏆

Natalie O'Rourke 💞

💪This article and many others soon will be a part of the Success Mindset Club membership, join now.

self-love self-care boundaries self-coaching healing self-help


Natalie O’Rourke is the founder of Success Mindset Club and creator of the Rise Into Freedom™ framework. Once a young mum at rock bottom, she made the choice to rise, to learn, and to grow — a decision that transformed her life and inspired her mission. Today, she helps new entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and side-hustlers cut through overwhelm and build businesses that feel simple, aligned, and free. Through her step-by-step Rise Into Freedom™ system, Natalie blends mindset, strategy, and supportive tools to guide others toward clarity, confidence, and lasting success.

Natalie O'Rourke - creator of the Rise Into Freedom™

Natalie O’Rourke is the founder of Success Mindset Club and creator of the Rise Into Freedom™ framework. Once a young mum at rock bottom, she made the choice to rise, to learn, and to grow — a decision that transformed her life and inspired her mission. Today, she helps new entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and side-hustlers cut through overwhelm and build businesses that feel simple, aligned, and free. Through her step-by-step Rise Into Freedom™ system, Natalie blends mindset, strategy, and supportive tools to guide others toward clarity, confidence, and lasting success.

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