I had a motto taken from Alice Walker which said

A WISE WOMAN WATERS HER OWN GARDEN FIRST.

In the book it came from the author tells of her mother who had little.Lived poor. She tended a flower garden although she had to do jobs for many others.First thing in the morning the mother would water her garden.
Putting her pleasure (garden) first.What energy left over she used for others.She made sure she had her share of the water.
This stays with me..and I try to live by it.No use being a voluteer and helping many if the source of our own authenticy is not being fed.
I have sought to find what makes me happy and add to it.Then if I am content I am able to be of service in whatever way presents itself.
Mountain ash