My therapist recommended keeping a gratitude journal. Every morning, when you first wake up, jot down 5 things you feel grateful for. At the end of the day, jot down "bonus" things to be grateful for.
So I went to Michael's and bought a journal that said "Be the windshield, not the bug". This has been really helpful to readjust my focus to the positive aspects of life when things get rough.
Things get overwhelming sometimes, but boy does journaling really help! I'm finding that writing everything down really does help. But I highly recommend the gratitude journal thing to my fellow caregivers out there- gotta count as many blessings in life as we can!
journey. Mine was not a gratitude one per se but when I felt grateful I would say so in my writings. I put all my feelings there especially ones that were difficult.
I still write in my journal... with the pandemic, my retirement and life events there was no way I could not document what is going on. I don't write every day but when I am feeling something intensely or something I have to get out, I write.
Keeps me sane, I believe.
Even your closest friends do not always want to hear the tough bits of your life so my journal is that "ear". It doesn't gossip. (smile)
There are very beautiful journal books out there with encouraging sayings. a treat for the eyes.
It's not good to hold feelings in and journaling helps to release them.
In the toughest situation, there is something to be grateful for. Sometimes, you have to dig deep to find it but it's there, if you choose to look at it that way.
Thanks for the great reminder.
After my bro died I took on a journal of notes and letters to him, when I thought of him, what I saw that day that reminded me of him. I collaged that one. That "Grief" and "celebration" book was a great comfort the first year after his death.
I am glad you mention this and it may help many. Wish it had been posted in discussion where these subjects kind of take on a life of their own.
“I'm doing the best I can, which is all that can be asked of me.” I love your attitude. You're right, caregiving is not for the faint of heart. It's refreshing to hear such a positive attitude about caregiving. Thanks for you wonderful post.