Water What Waters You: Prioritizing Relationships that Nourish You

As we journey through life, we encounter countless relationships—romantic partners, friends, colleagues, even acquaintances—that shape our experiences. Each of these connections has the potential to either uplift and nourish us or drain and deplete our energy. Yet, too often, we find ourselves stuck in relationships that leave us thirsty for more—more love, more support, more fulfillment. It’s time to take stock and ask yourself a simple but profound question: Are you watering what waters you?

When we talk about “watering,” we’re referring to nurturing, uplifting, and investing in something that, in turn, nurtures us. Healthy relationships are built on reciprocity—an exchange of love, care, respect, and support. However, it’s easy to fall into the trap of continuously pouring out energy into relationships that don't reciprocate. Maybe it’s a friendship where you’re always the one reaching out, a job that’s draining you without recognizing your efforts, or a romantic partner who isn’t giving you the emotional fulfillment you deserve. Whatever the situation, if you’re feeling drained, it’s time to reassess.

Understanding the Signs

The first step to watering what waters you is recognizing when a relationship isn’t serving you. Here are a few key signs:

1. Feeling Drained:

If you consistently feel emotionally or physically exhausted after spending time with someone, that’s a red flag. A healthy relationship should leave you feeling uplifted, not depleted.

2. Unbalanced Effort:

Are you always the one initiating contact, making plans, or offering support? Relationships should be a two-way street. If you’re constantly giving and rarely receiving, it may be time to reconsider.

3. Lack of Growth:

Healthy relationships challenge you to grow and evolve. If you feel stagnant, or worse, if the relationship is holding you back from becoming your best self, that’s a sign it’s not nourishing you.

4. Neglecting Self-Care:

When you’re over-invested in a one-sided relationship, you may find yourself neglecting your own needs. Whether it’s sacrificing your peace, your time, or even your mental health, this is a clear indication that the relationship is out of balance.

Reassessing and Reclaiming Your Energy

Once you’ve identified that a relationship is no longer watering you, it’s time to take action. This doesn’t always mean cutting ties entirely, but it does mean setting boundaries and protecting your well-being. Start by having an honest conversation with the person involved. Express how you’ve been feeling and what you need from the relationship. Sometimes, people may not even realize how their actions are affecting you, and an open dialogue can lead to positive change.

However, if the other person is unwilling or unable to meet your needs, it may be time to step back. Protecting your energy is not selfish—it’s essential. You cannot pour from an empty cup, and your well-being should always come first. Surround yourself with people who pour into you, who encourage your growth, and who genuinely care for your emotional, mental, and spiritual health.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, life is too short to spend your time, energy, and love on relationships that don’t fill your cup. Water what waters you. Prioritize connections that uplift you, relationships that bring out the best in you, and people who reciprocate the love and effort you give. Don’t be afraid to step back from those who don’t. You deserve relationships that nourish your soul, that contribute to your happiness, and that push you towards becoming the best version of yourself.

Take time today to reflect on your relationships. Which ones are truly watering you? Which ones are leaving you thirsty? And most importantly, what steps can you take to protect your energy and prioritize your well-being moving forward?

Your peace, your joy, and your emotional health are worth it. Choose yourself first, always. #sistahsupportingsistahs