Giving and Receiving, otherwise known as sharing. Or is it a season of more stress?
Caregivers are used to being the givers, as is implied by the name, and often you may have trouble receiving. Do you downplay your individual worth, as well as always to look out for others? At this time of year, this outlook may be highlighted by your focus on what others would like, need or appreciate for Christmas and forgetting about what you the health care professional caregiver might enjoy and benefit from.
As a provider you may be seeing an increase patient load with the end of year rush for medical care while the deductible has been met. There is often an increase demand on free time with the end of year gatherings, an increase in some financial and time pressures with the desire to get the right presents for those you care about. And an increase pressure to meet some of the goals you have set to accomplish this year. It all adds up to more demands on you which generally translate into more stress.
What can you do to make it a season of joy and sharing?
- Breathe, take some deep abdominal breaths and slow down every so often to center yourself. Refer back to the Stress from Fight or Flight to Choice booklets available through signing up for my list.
- Put what is going on currently in perspective; some of these pressures are temporary. When you take a look at the big picture where do your priorities lie? If you can imagine a month or a few months from now, looking back to Dec. 2013 what supports you or would have supported you through this busy time. This will give you clues as to what you can do now to decrease your stress and increase your joy.
- Be thoughtful concerning yourself; just as all the people who depend on you benefit and are revitalized by your care, think of what replenishes you and increases your vitality. What would help you to flourish?
- Be open and gracious to the gifts from others. Explore what it is like to experience the care of others, even if it is awkward. Say, and think, “thank you” rather than “you shouldn’t have.” Allow yourself to be a care recipient.
Please share what brings you joy at this season and your experience as the receiver, not just the giver.
To explore how you can revitalize and flourish, contact me.
Dina 203.744.YOU3 (9683)
