Being a caregiver sometimes means that you’re running around with a much emptier tank than you really should have. So what fills up your tank for you?
Get a Feel for How Full Your Tank Is
When you’re constantly busy and running from one task to another as a caregiver, it’s really easy to overlook how you’re feeling and what’s going on with you. So it’s important that you start getting back in touch with how full your tank is and what it feels like when you’re partially depleted. This is going to help you to recognize when you’re starting to run low so that you can do something for yourself right then.
Don’t Let Your Tank Get to Empty
The big thing is that if you allow your tank to get all the way to empty, that’s a big problem. It’s like trying to pour water out of an empty pitcher. You can’t do it. So that’s why you have to get much better about recognizing what your “level indicators” are. You might be sleepier than usual, for instance, or you’re avoiding activities that you love. Pay attention to those signs.
Make a List of What You Love Doing
No matter how silly the activity seems, if you love doing it then it likely helps to fill up your tank. Joy, happiness, love, and all those other good emotions help to fill your tank. Other activities that can fill your tank might be sleeping well, eating nutritious food, and even doing nothing for a little while. Make a list so that you can refer to it, because when your tank does start to get low nothing sounds pleasurable. A list gives you something to pick that you know will do you some good.
Set up an Accountability System
Tasks like this are much easier when you have someone else to help you stay on track. If you’ve made friends with someone else who is a caregiver, you can help each other to stick to your plan. An accountability system can be incredibly beneficial because your partner may notice things that you haven’t and you can do the same for that person.
When you have a better understanding of what empties your tank, what fills it, and what it feels like when you’re at even a half tank you’re going to be able to stay on top of this whole situation much better. Running on empty is not a healthy way to be a caregiver and it can lead to big issues for you.
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED-ONE ARE CONSIDERING SENIOR CARE IN BUCKEYE, AZ, CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT GOLDEN HEART SENIOR CARE. CALL TODAY (623) 748-3301.