Do you often hear the phrase, “You look good for your age?” Why can’t you just look good? Are we too sensitive? Does the person mean we are aging well? Is it a compliment? As baby boomers become older, many of us are becoming more aware and taking better care of ourselves. We are often responsible for the care of other family members — sometimes parents; often grandchildren or other family members. It is crucial that we put ourselves first. “We are not able to fill someone else’s cup if ours is empty.” So get out today and do something just for you. Go for a walk, purchase those fantastic boots you have been eyeing for the past few weeks, go to see a movie, call a friend. You deserve it. It’s all about aging gracefully
Caregiver Guilt
When we have been thrust into the arena as the major caregiver for a family member, we are often riddled with guilt. We have to realize it’s not our fault. Stop the blame, shame and criticism. We are doing what we think is necessary and beneficial for our loved ones. We must remember we also have to take care of ourselves. Support groups are terrific avenues to share feelings, overcome some of the anxieties and stresses that are a natural part of care-giving. Share your thoughts and feeling with us.
Manipulation
Remember being caught in the act of doing something as a child?? Someone — a friend or relative — used your guilt to constantly remind you of that act. You were convinced to share unwillingly with that person, offer him/her special favors. Has that manipulation made the journey into adulthood with us? Forgive the act and forgive the manipulator. Release the guilt and really let it go. The manipulator no longer has reins on us. What do you think?
Can you do everything?
In this multi-tasking, do-it-yourself society, are you still trying to be a super person? Even when we know that it causes excess stress, anxiety and confusion, we are still trying to prove to someone that we really can accomplish more than the average person all by ourselves. Yes, we are able to accomplish great feats — with help. Delegation is so important. And guess what!! Our family, friends and associates are often eager and pleased to be entrusted with some of those activities we mistakenly thought were meant only for our eyes. What are you willing to delegate? I know it’s not easy. Start with something really simple and graduate to releasing more and more.br /Everyone will be better for it