Self-Care: Choosing to Sing
Let quotes of encouragement remind you of the impact you’re making and inspire you to keep going—even on the toughest days.
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Caregiving includes many special moments as well as numerous challenging ones. No matter your starting point, we want to inspire you to feel empowered in your caregiving role.
The care you provide is meaningful and important. You are making a difference.
There may be many things outside of your control today. Sometimes we feel like we’re losing control of our emotions too. Like they are controlling us instead of us controlling them. The truth is that we do have power over our emotions and our mindset.
Showing kindness to yourself by caring for your emotional, physical and social wellbeing can help set you up to give your best each day. And, when you are at your best, your loved one will benefit too.
“Some days there won’t be a song in your heart. Sing anyway.”
– Emory Austin, talk-show host
The focus of Austin’s quote isn’t about singing audibly. Although, if that’s what brings you joy, we encourage you to embrace it!
If you feel like your caregiver energy tank is running low, Austin is pointing out that you have a choice. You can choose to sing anyway. You can feel empowered to take control and intentionally fill your thoughts with those of gratitude. Gratitude is one of the most powerful strategies for recentering yourself.
Take a few minutes and reflect on the good in your day. Consider the love you may have for the one you are caring for or the blessings you may have experienced along the way. Spend a few minutes journaling and writing down how you feel. A moment of reflection can help reinforce the positive moments in your caregiver journey.
Additionally, take a few moments to read the encouraging quotes below. Find one that you connect with – one that inspires you to sing anyway.
- “The simple act of caring is heroic.” – Edward Albert
- “Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” —Lao Tzu
- “If you’re someone people count on, particularly in difficult moments, that’s a sign of a life lived honorably. – Rachel Maddow
- “To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors.” – Tia Walker
- “Regardless of what challenge you are facing right now, know that it has not come to stay. It has come to pass. During these times, do what you can with what you have, and ask for help if needed. Most importantly, never surrender. Put things in perspective. Take care of yourself. Find ways to replenish your energy, strengthen your faith, and fortify yourself from the inside out.” – Les Brown
Whether you have been caregiving for many months or you were unexpectedly thrust into the role of caregiving, remember that you are doing impactful, life-affirming work. Keep it up. Keep choosing to sing.