- I give myself permission to not keep the following resolutions or to keep them only partway.
- When I feel I am imperfect, I will remember that guilt is not an option as long as I know I did the best I could, given the circumstances.
- Regardless of how deserving the source, I will say no to requests for my time when I know I can’t add any more to my plate.
- I will remember that family members and friends who are not care receivers deserve some of my time. This may mean a little less of my attention will go to my care receiver, and that is okay.
- I will follow through with my own medical appointments and screenings, including dental cleanings and eye exams.
- I will find a way to monitor my own energy levels so I can recharge my batteries before I hit the point of exhaustion and burnout.
- I will remember that seeking advice from professionals, organizations and fellow caregivers is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- I will remember that my care receiver didn’t choose the illness or disability that he or she is living with.
- I will remember that I didn’t choose this life for my care receiver either, so I won’t be a martyr to their illness.
- I will remember that taking care of my own needs isn’t selfish. Taking care of myself benefits everyone I love.
- I will get appropriate help for myself if depression, anxiety or other mental health issues become apparent to me, my friends or my family.
- I will be open to alternative ways of caring for myself. This can include massage, aroma therapy, some form of meditation, exercise, attending a caregiver support group, participating in an online caregiver forum, seeking out respite care, or meeting with a therapist.