Thursday, 31 December 2015

My Caregiver New Year's Resolution for 2016

Happy New Year, everyone!



Yesterday, I happened upon an article titled '7 Habits of Chronically Unhappy People'.  It was number 5 that caught my eye: You Strive to Control Your Life.  Now, I'm a very happy person - I'm an optimist by nature.  But when I am unhappy, usually there's a control issue in the picture.  Here's what makes many caregivers miserable, including me:

There's a difference between control and striving to achieve our goals. Happy people take steps daily to achieve their goals, but realize in the end, there's very little control over what life throws their way.
Unhappy people tend to micromanage in effort to control all outcomes and fall apart in dramatic display when life throws a wrench in their plan. Happy people can be just as focused, yet still have the ability to go with the flow and not melt down when life delivers a curve-ball.
The key here is to be goal-oriented and focused, but allow room for letting sh*t happen without falling apart when the best laid plans go awry- because they will. Going with the flow is what happy people have as plan B.

I wouldn't say I melt down when life throws a curve ball at someone I love, but at the same time, I feel most at peace when I believe that I've put in place plans for 'any exigency' as my Mom would say.  I like it when my loved ones' to-do lists are all checked off.  That state of perfect care doesn't last more than hours or a day at the most, but I always believe it's always just around the corner if only I had more time, more energy or more foresight.

I know that my caregiving is fuelled by love and that I do the best I can.  So my New Year's resolution is to put aside my aspirations for perfection and trust in myself, in others and the fates to keep my loved ones safe and warm.  The business of balancing holding on and letting go is a tough one for caregivers, me included.  When life throws curve balls, we beat ourselves up for not anticipating or thwarting disaster.  This year, I'm determined to do better at being happy and going with the flow.  It's going to be my Plan B starting tomorrow.

Oh, and PS: I'm going to finish the book that I'm writing with Vickie Cammack! (But if curve balls come my way, I'll be OK with a delay in my publication date.)

May all your homes be filled with love, joy and gratitude throughout 2016.  Happy New Year!


13 comments:

hamza said...

Great article! Your New Year's Resolution for 2016 is so inspiring and important. Taking care of yourself as a caregiver is just as important as taking care of those you are caring for. It's important to remember to take time for yourself and take care of your own needs too. Thanks for the reminder! Look at my website top website development companies

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The article "My Caregiver New Year's Resolution for 2016" is a heartfelt reflection on the dedication and compassion of caregivers, setting inspiring New Year's resolutions. The author's personal experiences and commitment to caregiving shine through, making the content relatable and moving. The article effectively captures the essence of caregiving, emphasizing the importance of self-care and finding a balance. The author's transparency adds depth and authenticity to the piece, and the inclusion of specific and achievable resolutions demonstrates a proactive approach to caregiving. The article emphasizes seeking support and resources, which is crucial for caregivers' well-being. The resolutions provide a roadmap for caregivers to navigate their responsibilities with care and love. The balance between personal narrative and practical advice is well-executed, making the content engaging. The article's length is just right, offering a comprehensive look at the caregiver's journey without overwhelming the reader. The author's resilience and determination to make a positive impact on the lives they touch are inspiring. Overall, the article is a touching and informative piece that sheds light on the selflessness and strength of caregivers. The article effectively captures the emotional and practical aspects of caregiving, showcasing its importance in society. The resolutions demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of both caregivers and their loved ones.

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The 'My Caregiver New Year's Resolution' is a valuable guide for caregivers, offering a unique perspective on self-improvement in the context of caregiving. The author's personal journey and resolutions highlight the importance of self-care, resilience, and strength in providing care. The resolution offers practical tips, such as fostering a support network, mindfulness, and stress-relief strategies, and encourages a positive mindset, promoting gratitude and joy in small moments.

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As a caregiver, my New Year's resolution for 2016 is to further enhance the quality of care provided to my loved ones. This involves dedicating more time to understanding their needs, exploring innovative caregiving approaches, and prioritizing their well-being. It's a commitment to fostering a nurturing environment, ensuring each day is filled with compassion, support, and moments of joy.

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The caregiver's New Year's Resolution for 2016 is inspiring, demonstrating their commitment to providing excellent care and support. They prioritize personal and professional growth, ensuring positive impact on the well-being of their patients. They value creating a nurturing environment and setting a commendable standard for compassionate caregiving. They wish them success in achieving their goals throughout the year.
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A New Year's resolution for a caregiver is to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed. This involves practicing self-compassion, taking breaks, staying organized, and celebrating achievements. Prioritizing self-care involves engaging in activities that recharge, seeking support from friends, family, or professional counselors, setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, taking breaks, and staying organized. By prioritizing self-care and seeking support, caregivers can navigate the challenges of caregiving with compassion and resilience.

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"My Caregiver New Year's Resolution for 2016" emphasizes the importance of self-care, patience, and emotional resilience. Caregivers often prioritize others, but the resolution calls for balancing caregiving duties with personal well-being. Setting boundaries, seeking support, and practicing mindfulness are key steps toward sustaining both their own health and caregiving effectiveness.