Are you like me? A successful career woman, a parent, a wife and a daughter? All roles I am proud of and work hard to do well in.
I recently have taken a larger role in caring for parents. It’s a labor of love that I am happy to do. Making time and space for this new role has caused me to pivot in my other roles.
But sometimes it can be overwhelming. It can be harder to balance all the responsibilities, and the burden can weigh heavily on our shoulders.
Welcome to “The Sandwich generation”. It means we’re taking care of both our kids and our parents. It can be so rewarding, but also draining. And you can forget yourselves in the hustle.
As I have moved into The Sandwich Generation, I have tried different ways to keep the balance.
Here’s what I’ve learned so far:
Create a plan: As you know, I love a good plan. Take stock of your responsibilities and create a calendar. Staying organized will help us see when we have too many obligations, and when we need to ask for help.
Ask for Help: Don’t be afraid to ask family or friends for help. It’s okay to get support when we need it.
Make Time for Yourself: Find moments to relax and do things you enjoy. Taking care of ourselves helps us take care of others better. Schedule regular breaks and self-care activities to recharge our energy. I take time to connect with friends and read.
Talk it Through: Share your feelings with someone you trust. Talking can help us feel better and get new ideas for handling things. Seek out a mentor or counselor to talk through challenges and gain fresh perspectives. I make sure I talk to friends who are also in the Sandwich Generation to share our struggles and successes.
Stay Positive: Focus on the good things and remember that you’re doing your best. A positive attitude can help us handle tough times. Practice gratitude and celebrate small victories to keep motivation high.
Set Boundaries: Learn to say no when you’re stretched too thin. Boundaries help us manage our time and energy better. Establish clear limits to protect our personal time and prevent burnout. I’ve had to downsize the non-profit boards I participate in to do this.
Being in the Sandwich Generation has been very rewarding for me. I’ve gotten closer to my dad while still spending quality time with my kids and husband. Although it can be stressful at times and I can feel pulled at times, with the right tools and grace for myself, I’ve been able to manage it with some time for myself.
I hope these tips will help you in your journey. Got others? We’d love to hear!
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