A Caregiving Comfort: Guess
So much during our caregiving experience can feel like a guess.
If I'm guessing, I'm stressing.
Guessing feels like feeling my way in the dark as I try to find a light switch. It's an awful way to find help.
During caregiving, we can feel like it's all a guess. Will this doctor be the right one? It's anyone's guess. Will my caree like the home health aide? It's just a guessing game at this point. Will I have a few moments to relax today? Your guess is as good as mine.
All the guessing is stressful because we feel like we spend too much time in the dark without a light switch nearby.
We all need a night light, a simple solution that leads us to the light so we can see the day, our experiences, our path more clearly.
Your night light may be:
A perspective that provides the guidance for the next step. Mine is "Every worry needs a plan."
A sounding board that provides helpful insights so you have possibilities to consider.
A good listener who receives your story with kindness and compassionate curiosity so you hear your own wisdom.
A simple prayer, like "help me," that lifts your head to the sky so you look up to support rather down at doubt.
A notebook or a spreadsheet that tracks what works and what doesn't so your guessing evolves into your knowledge.
It's also helpful to remember that you are never a guess. We don't ever have to guess if you're doing best, if you're showing up during difficult moments, if you're aligning your actions with your priorities and values.
You're the guarantee during a time of guessing.
Resources
Read more comforts in our Support, Comfort and Compassion for You space in our community, Caring Our Way.
You can purchase my five-book Take Comfort series to always have comfort on hand.
Our next Caregiving Listener Project will happen on March 22. Learn how you can provide support as a Volunteer Listener or receive support as a Story Teller.
Join us in Chicago on May 15, 16 and 17 to Heal, Receive and Plan. Early-bird registration rate ends March 10.
Schedule your time with us to start your Family Emergency Plan on March 20.
Enjoy the podcast, below.