I’ve been searching high and low for what helps me the most in my caregiving journey. I’m happy to announce my new ebook Wake Up Call for Caregivers: Tools to Improve Your Health which discusses practical ways caregivers can take better care of themselves from a health coaching perspective. As someone in the midst of a caregiving season, I read the book to remind myself of what I should do. It’s easy to forget in the midst of daily challenges.

Gratitude

I notice that when I focus on gratitude, I’m in a much better place. I focus on all the people who have helped me or my loved ones. Even if you are dealing with decline and health issues, I see small miracles where my loved one is spared more suffering, or someone is really helpful and saved me from hours of worry, or someone spoke a kind word that encouraged me. If you really reflect, you can see these moments of gratitude and do a mental highlight reel each day.

Don’t Go There

I tend to think of the worst case scenario because I want to be well prepared. I like to be in control and prepared for emergencies, so when I travel, I take too much. This mindset will hinder you in the caregiving journey. I think it’s good to prepare for certain realities, but each day can’t be well-lived if you are thinking the next catastrophe is around the corner. When the moment comes, know you will rise to the occasion but you can have peace in your heart, knowing you are doing the best that you can. You can mainly focus on making memories with your loved one and helping them with their quality of life. So focus on the present moment and not in the future or past regrets. Don’t second guess every decision you’ve ever made and torture yourself. If you don’t judge others, then certainly don’t let your critical voice hurt yourself in this manner.

Right Now

There will be numerous anxiety-causing situations in your caregiving journey, so as they say, you can always return to the breath to anchor you. Stop and take deep breaths to calm you. Remaining calm is the most loving thing you can do so you can make good decisions and be in a positive mental and emotional state. If your thoughts are racing, know that you are still in control, even if your body is telling you otherwise. Know that you can always find the answers and people who can help you. Make a resource list of experts who can help you in your time of need.

I hope you try some of these suggestions and see how you feel. The printed version will be announced soon.