When life’s a long, hard slog, it’s easy to become discouraged and tired. When circumstances have been beyond your control for a long time, a healthy way forward is to focus inwards and lean into your self-care practices.
Self-care
Ofcourse, I am assuming you have a practice. By this I mean things you can regularly engage with as a source of comfort and peace. If you have not already got a self-care practice, start today. Start simply. Start. Choose one thing that is easy to do and that brings you peace. This can be a creative activity, a daily reading, prayer, yoga, a walk, journalling or reaching out to a friend who brings you life. Then do it again tomorrow. And repeat for as long as it centres you and is helpful.
If you used to have a self-care practice, but don’t use it anymore, now is the time to re-engage with it. Ongoing and demanding circumstances take their toll on our bodies and minds, so try self-care that works with both these areas.
Take Time Out
If it’s possible, book some respite time. Take a break from the situation. This is not easy, especially if you are in a carer’s role. You may need to look at your expectations and lower them. No one else is going to care in the exact same way as you, but that is OK. Relinquish the need to control how care is delivered wherever possible so that you can turn the attention onto yourself for a while.
Use your time away well. You may need to catch up on tasks that you’ve let slide for too long. However, once those items are crossed off the list, turn your attention to some life-giving activities that will fill your cup. You may not be able to go on a holiday in an exotic location, but your may be able to do some day trips. Work within your means to bring yourself some refreshment and a sense of rest.
Let Others In
When you’re hit by wave after wave of challenges, your resilience will be eroded. Invite trusted people in to help you. This might mean practical help like taking your kids home one day a week, or emotional help such as spending time with a mentor or counsellor. Either way, this will remind you that you’re not alone.
When life’s a long, hard slog you can make some changes to relieve the pressure. If you need more support than reading a blog can provide, I suggest making a time with a counsellor. Online sessions might be an easier way for you to access the support you need. I’d be happy to take a call if this applies to you.
