It is not unusual at all for a caregiver to have no idea what to do with any free time. It’s important for you to have an idea what you enjoy and want to do so that when that time opens up for you, you aren’t left wondering how you can use it.
Forgetting What You Enjoy Is a Real Thing
Many caregivers get flustered when they start to think seriously about taking time for themselves because they honestly don’t remember what they enjoy doing. If this is the case for you, don’t fret. This is a perfect opportunity to try some new things or even just do nothing with your free time. You might simply need time to decompress so you can think.
Start Keeping a Journal
Keeping a journal is a fantastic way to get back in touch with yourself. You can start simply by writing down how you’re feeling or what you would like to do. You can gain valuable insight that helps you to set goals and to determine your next steps. Start making lists about what you used to do and what you want to start doing now.
Start Small and Work Your Way Up
Don’t overwhelm yourself with a full day of time just for you. That can make you feel a little bit panicky. Starting smaller, with say an hour or two of free time, gives you a chance to experiment a bit with how time away from your aging family member feels for you. If you are having a difficult time with being away, you can gradually work your way through those issues.
What Would You Tell a Friend?
Many caregivers find it difficult to know what they should do, especially when it comes to free time. Try turning the tables a little bit and think about what you would tell a friend in your situation. Most people have excellent advice that they offer to the people that they love, even if they would find it difficult to take that advice themselves. Consider what you would tell a friend and then do your best to follow that advice.
If you’re not already focusing on how to get more time for yourself, you need to do so. Being a caregiver is a demanding situation, but that doesn’t mean that you give up being your own person. Take the time that you need to recharge yourself and to enjoy your own life.
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED-ONE ARE CONSIDERING CAREGIVERS IN SUN CITY WEST, AZ, CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT GOLDEN HEART SENIOR CARE. CALL TODAY (623) 748-3301.