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It’s hard to believe that another year has passed. Have you made your list of resolutions yet?
As caregivers, we play a unique role in the life of someone else. We spend a great deal of time focused on this individual and sometimes we feel like we can’t balance everything. Below are some possible resolutions for the New Year to help you on your journey as a caregiver.
Make Time For You: While it may seem counterproductive to make time for yourself when you have a loved one to care for, it actually needs to be a priority. You need to have enough physical and mental energy to handle the job, and that means making time for your own needs on a regular basis, whether it is an hour a week or 15 minutes a day. You need that time to recharge.
Stop Feeling Guilty: Sometimes we feel guilty when we can’t be present for our loved one 24/7. That stubborn guilt can make us feel like we are letting our loved one down, even if we have been giving our all. This year, we need to let go of the guilt and understand that we are only human. To be the best caregiver possible, we need to learn to take care of ourselves.
Don’t Be So Critical of Yourself: You might make mistakes along the way, but you are doing more good than you realize. When you look at yourself less critically, you can see just how much you are accomplishing for your loved one. Rather than dwelling on the negative, focus on the positive. Remind yourself that you make a difference.
Get Organized: You have a lot going on in your life when you consider everything it takes to care for your loved one along with a household, job and all of your other duties. Have a calendar where you input all important dates for your home, work and loved one. Keeping your house orderly and organized can also help you manage your daily routine.
Get Help: They say it takes a village to raise a child and the same concept applies to being a caregiver. It takes a great deal of time, effort and work to be a caregiver, especially if you’re doing it alone. This year, you may want to make it not just a resolution, but a priority to ask for help. Tell your family what you need them to do to help, and if a neighbor or your church asks what can they do, tell them.
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