We have a choice—to feel victimized or to take action.
We can provide good reasons why we've been putting things off. Getting stuff done helps us to clear our thinking and to demolish mental clutter. Once we're on track accomplishing our tasks, we feel lighter—one less thing that occupies our thoughts.
The world keeps moving regardless of whether we act or not.
Time to take care of YOU.
Time to do something that you want to do. For example, I try to do a day-long hike somewhere in the mountains at least once a year. This year, I've stayed clear of the Sierra Mountains due to poor air quality from California's record-breaking fires. I considered flying to another country. Again, I chose not to. I don't want to put up with the uncertainty of COVID and the ever-changing travel guidelines.
Yet, I have to do
something. I
want to do something. I began exploring locally. Los Angeles County has a lot to offer—beaches, mountains, and more. I've lived here for over 30 years and estimate that I've likely experienced the equivalent of one finger of my body. So, for now, I am opting to take
staycations, instead.
Caregiving is challenging enough, let alone the anxiety of COVID-related uncertainty.
Slow down and focus on what you need, right now.
Friends and I visited the Korean Friendship Bell in San Pedro and then drove down to Cabrillo Beach, close by. We walked on the pier and climbed on the rocks. Then we took a scenic drive up to Beverly Hills where we enjoyed an exquisitely prepared seafood dinner at Il Fornaio.
If you put off taking care of you, there will be little left of you to share. How long can you drive your car on empty? Take time to do something to refuel yourself. It doesn't have to be a big deal. Even a small diversion can make a big difference. If you don't, you could be "eligible" for a "State Mandated Vacation."
How? In three minutes, you may smile as you discover the answer in
The Five-Minute Respite for Caregivers on You Tube.
