Is there life outside of caregiving?
When you realize that your life is not defined by being a caregiver, you’ll reach outside of yourself and do things to balance your life as a caregiver. These things have absolutely nothing to do with your loved one.
Things like:
Spending a few hours out on the town just pampering yourself
Getting a one-hour massage
Taking up a hobby which may be something that you longed to do but didn’t think you had time for
Reinventing your wardrobe
Getting a make-over
Writing your first novel
This list could be endless. Just think about what a balanced life as a caregiver is all about. What is it that you would like to do that’s just about you? Do that.
Care-giving can often feel like a thankless job. Isn’t it time you start thanking yourself by recognizing who you REALLY are?
(taken from Michelle Howard Smith, Stress Relief for Caregivers)