It can be challenging to take care of yourself when you are busy caring for others, especially if a loved one requires a high level of attention and assistance with tasks. Here is one short and simple thing you can do to take care of your mental well-being.
When faced with the challenges of caregiving over the last year, what inner qualities did you possess that helped you through it? Focusing on your strengths rather than any perceived “weaknesses” can help you to create positive thinking patterns for improved mood, increased confidence, and stress reduction.
For example, you might say “Last year when I had a difficult experience, I showed strength through my…”
- Patience
- Self-Compassion
- Organization
- Acceptance
- Flexibility
- Creativity
- Humour
What other personal qualities can you find strength? If you are having trouble looking inward and identifying your strengths, think of how a friend or family member might describe you. By identifying your strengths, you can harness and apply them to your caregiving journey in the year ahead.
