4 Guidelines in Balancing Self-Care and Caregiving

Are you struggling to balance caring for yourself while ensuring your loved ones are happy and healthy? Finding that sweet spot where everyone’s needs are met can be a real challenge. But don’t worry – there are tips and tricks to help you take care of yourself without neglecting those closest to you. It’s possible!

As someone who values family, you prioritize the well-being of your loved ones and find joy in caring for them every day.

But is that commitment to your loved ones causing you to neglect yourself? How many times have you bypassed your desires for someone else?

It’s admirable that you want to care for your family and friends. But it’s important to balance that with self-care. You may think it’s impossible, but it’s easier than it appears.

Take a look at 4 guidelines for balancing self-care with caring for loved ones:

1. Be creative with quiet time.  If you think inside the box, quiet time means time alone without distractions or responsibilities.  You can paint a completely different picture if you think outside the box.  For example, Instead of foregoing your spa day for babysitting duties, why not take your little one with you? Get mom and daughter pedicures or 2-for-1 back massage. That way, you’re taking care of your loved one and getting well-deserved pampering for yourself!
2. Get the rest you need. The best way to be useful to your loved ones is to be fresh and rested. Neglecting your rest will make you cranky and impatient. Being there physically may not be enough for some people in your life. They can tell when you’re doing it out of routine, and that’s not the impression you want to give!
3. Share your needs with your loved ones. Your family can only understand your position if you share it with them. Give them a chance to hear from you to reciprocate their selflessness. Explain to your family members that you like to feel appreciated. They’ll realize that although you enjoy doing things for them, you would still like recognition.  
4. Express remorse. It’s easy to feel guilty for taking time, knowing those special people need something from you. But have you ever stopped to consider what may happen if you cannot be there? Not paying enough attention to yourself could make you ineffective as a support base. Don’t let guilt drag you down.

To reduce guilt, practice self-compassion and forgiveness, and make amendments.

Be gentle with yourself and remind yourself that you are doing your best.  Try replacing negative thoughts with Self-Compassion and reminding yourself that you deserve to treat yourself.  Holding on to guilt can be a form of self-punishment, so letting go can be a great act of self-care.  Taking action to correct something you have done wrong or feeling not good enough can help end the cycle of guilt, shame, and blame.  Lastly, ask yourself if your expectations of yourself are reasonable and if you expect someone else to respond the same way.

If they are truly your loved ones, they will understand your needs. Communication is a two-way street.   Learning to balance your needs with those of your loved ones can make a difference.