In this episode, Jeanette discusses the importance of setting boundaries as a caregiver and focuses explicitly on different types of boundaries that come into play when taking a break. She explains the physical, time, and emotional/mental boundaries and how they all work together to provide a true respite. Jeanette provides practical steps for setting boundaries, such as communicating with the person you care for and scheduling your break on your calendar. She also offers strategies for overcoming worry and guilt during your break, including practicing mindfulness, reflecting on past successful breaks, and seeking support from friends and family. Jeanette concludes with a guided meditation to help caregivers release worry and guilt and fully enjoy their breaks.
Takeaways
- Setting boundaries is essential to caregiving and allows caregivers to enjoy their breaks fully.
- When taking a break, different types of boundaries should be considered, including physical, time, and emotional/mental boundaries.
- Practical steps for setting boundaries include communicating with the person you care for and scheduling your break on your calendar.
- Strategies for overcoming worry and guilt during your break include practicing mindfulness, reflecting on past successful breaks, and seeking support from friends and family.
- Taking care of yourself is not only okay but also necessary for effective caregiving.
Resources:
Meditation Script: "No Worry / No Guilt" (BONUS* This link allows you to sign up for my Hit Pause & Press On Guided Meditation Series! In addition to the No Worry, No Guilt Script, you'll get access to additional 5-minute guided meditations made just for you!)
Workshop: “Say No and Mean It Without Being Mean”
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At The Self-Caregiver LLC we guide women caring for their aging parents overcome burnout and release guilt to create more freedom and fulfillment in their life.
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