This podcast highlights the essential role of having a strong support group, a safe space where you feel understood and where you can openly share your experiences. It’s a place to talk through life’s challenges without fear of judgment, to be heard, and to gain perspective. Support groups help people recognize and validate their struggles, offering comfort, resources, and advice to navigate difficult times. Having a network of people who empathize can make an enormous difference, helping you build resilience and find solutions that bring growth and relief.

Negotiation is something we all learn from a young age. We negotiate with ourselves, with those around us, and with life itself. To be successful in negotiation, it's crucial to identify what we are unwilling to sacrifice and to be clear about setting boundaries. Understanding your non-negotiables allows you to approach situations with confidence and clarity. Whether in personal relationships, at work, or in everyday decisions, knowing where to draw the line is key to effective negotiation. Establishing boundaries isn’t just about protecting what matters to you, it also fosters respect and healthier interactions with others.

In most life projects, whether personal or professional, there is typically a planning phase. However, when it comes to caregiving, many people find themselves in the role without any prior thought or preparation, simply reacting as things unfold. It’s important to consciously decide how much time you want to dedicate to being a caregiver—whether part-time, full-time, remotely, or by providing only financial or emotional support. Once you’ve made that decision, it’s crucial to establish your non-negotiables: which tasks you can and want to handle, and which ones you cannot. Regularly reassessing these aspects is a healthy approach.

The brain has certain ways of thinking that make it difficult to follow advice, even when we receive it, until our brain actually believes it. As women, many of us were raised to prioritize the well-being and service of others over our own, and changing this mindset requires a conscious process and effort. The first step is becoming aware of the internal dialogue we have with ourselves. Once we recognize these thoughts, we can begin to introduce neutral thoughts, gradually teaching our brain to accept them. Ultimately, this will allow us to integrate thoughts of self-care and kindness, creating a more compassionate mindset toward ourselves. This journey toward self-compassion isn't about disregarding others but rather creating balance. When we care for ourselves, we are in a better position to care for those around us. The process is gradual, but each step is an investment in our emotional and mental well-being, helping us become stronger and more resilient caregivers, partners, and individuals.

"How do you find time for yourself when so many things are happening around you? There are countless tasks to do, and it often feels like there’s hardly any time left for self-care. Most people think of self-care as taking two hours at the spa or going on a week-long vacation—focusing on the big picture. But sometimes, this way of thinking turns self-care into just another thing on your to-do list, something else you *have* to accomplish, which can feel overwhelming. Instead, it’s helpful to find something you can do for yourself on a daily basis, something that will ground you and bring you back to your center. These small activities don’t have to be grand gestures; they can be simple things that help you stay connected to yourself and give you the strength to keep moving forward.  Ask yourself: What soothes your senses? What calms your mind? Is it something like doing Sudoku, meditating, or reading? How do you stay physically active? Is it stretching, working out, or just taking a walk? And how do you stay connected with others? It’s important to identify the little things that ground you—those small, daily practices that give you a sense of stability and peace amidst the chaos. These simple habits can become your anchors, helping you recharge and face life’s challenges with renewed energy."

As children, we celebrate the small milestones like standing up for the first time or taking a first step. But as we grow older, we often stop celebrating these small achievements. It would be beneficial to start acknowledging and celebrating the little things in life again, including the small accomplishments we make. Celebrating is important because it boosts our self-esteem and confidence. It also helps break down long processes into manageable, smaller parts. For caregivers, the journey can feel long and exhausting, and though it may seem like there’s nothing to celebrate, there are small wins along the way that deserve recognition. Allowing ourselves to appreciate these moments helps us improve in our caregiving role. In the business world, every department has milestones, and throughout the development of a project, teams often celebrate these milestones during meetings. It lifts spirits, refreshes the team, and brings motivation. Caregiving is no different. Celebrating small wins along this challenging path can offer the same encouragement and a much-needed break. Today is a good day to celebrate, to acknowledge the little victories, and to give ourselves credit for doing our best despite the challenges.

In this podcast, we interview Tara Jenkins who explains how our brains are constantly firing and making connections when we listen to music. There's a lot of science behind how music can engage different centers of the brain. Music can be a valuable tool for caregivers, both by using it with their loved ones and for themselves. Knowing the music that your loved ones enjoy is a great starting point. Besides other tips she explains how matching your breathing to calming music can help soothe you. http://www.harmonyindementia

In this podcast I share with you how, during a lift I took I had an amazing conversation. As we grow older, we become more aware of what we truly need. We all go through tough times, but often, we don't pay attention to how we're feeling. This lack of awareness makes it difficult to communicate our needs to others. Learning to recognize our emotions is crucial. Recognizing emotions involves pausing and tuning into our mental and physical states. Are you feeling anxious, tired, or overwhelmed? Identifying the emotion is the first step, but it doesn't stop there. The next step is to accept those emotions without judgment and find ways to express them constructively.  When we become more aware of our emotions, we can start having healthier conversations with those around us.

Today we will be interviewing Dr. Kerul Kessel, who shares her inspiring life story and offers advice on how to navigate the caregiving stage of life. Dr. Kessel highlights that simple activities, like watching lighthearted TV shows, can provide the rest the body and mind need, or something as calming as walking the dogs. Being in nature, can help us reconnect with ourselves and regain perspective. A central theme in her advice is self-awareness.She also encourages involving others in your journey and creating structures that support your efforts to stay centered. Finally, she speaks on the value of giving back to others.

In this podcast, I share how, after a period of burnout, always feeling tired and stressed, and not being able to sleep well for months, I finally feel rested and liberated after a few days of complete disconnection. I tend to want to have control over everything and everyone’s life, and that is not functional for anyone, especially for caregivers, where there are multiple situations beyond our control. To truly disconnect, it is necessary to make a list of every single thing we do. Learning to delegate to others and trust them is crucial. It involves thinking about potential issues that might arise and preparing your team with the tools and contacts needed to address anything that could go wrong. Ultimately, it means letting go and trusting the process. Expanding on this, disconnection doesn't just mean physically stepping away from responsibilities; it's about mental and emotional detachment as well. Delegation involves more than just handing off tasks; it’s about empowering others and fostering a collaborative environment. This process allows caregivers to recharge and return to their duties with renewed energy and perspective. It’s also important to recognize that letting go of control doesn’t equate to neglect. It means creating a sustainable system where everyone involved is better equipped to handle challenges. By sharing this experience, I hope to encourage other caregivers to prioritize their well-being and find balance in their lives.

In this podcast, I discuss how trust is something that is built or broken over time. Trust can grow stronger or be lost depending on actions and experiences. It's essential to establish trust within a support system, and this can be achieved through small challenges that help strengthen it. A robust support system is vital in life, providing a foundation of reliability and confidence that you can rely on in both good times and bad. Expanding on this, building trust often requires consistent, honest communication and a willingness to be vulnerable. It involves demonstrating reliability, keeping promises, and being transparent in your actions and intentions.  In the context of a support system, trust ensures that members can lean on each other, share openly, and collaborate effectively. It creates an environment where people feel valued and understood, which is crucial for emotional well-being. By nurturing trust, we not only strengthen our relationships but also create a network of support that can help us navigate the complexities of life with greater ease and confidence.

In this podcast, I'll be discussing the difficulty of saying no and setting boundaries. It's often challenging because people generally don't like hearing "no." However, it's crucial to learn how to say no, even if it might disappoint others. Ultimately, prioritizing your own happiness and well-being can lead to a more peaceful and fulfilling life. While it's natural to want to avoid conflict or disappointment, it's essential to remember that your own needs and boundaries matter. One approach is to explain your perspective calmly and clearly. This can help others understand your reasoning and reduce any potential negative reactions. Additionally, you can invite others to contribute to the situation by suggesting they take on the tasks or responsibilities you're declining. This way, you're not just saying no, but also offering a constructive way forward. Another helpful strategy is to brainstorm alternative solutions together. This collaborative approach can often lead to creative and mutually satisfying outcomes. Ultimately, setting boundaries and saying no when necessary is a vital skill for maintaining healthy relationships and personal well-being. It's about finding a balance between being considerate of others and being true to yourself.

In this podcast, I'll be talking about mental health, which is not a common topic. It's something that usually isn't discussed openly. It's important to understand that when someone has a mental health issue, putting in all their effort alone may not be enough to overcome it. Moreover, just dedicating time to oneself, eating healthily, meditating, and exercising doesn't guarantee immunity from mental health problems. Addressing mental health challenges requires a more comprehensive approach. It's crucial to seek the guidance of a team of experts who can provide the right support and treatment. This team might include therapists, counselors, doctors, and other professionals who specialize in mental health care. Together, they can help create a personalized action plan tailored to the individual's specific needs. However, it's important to recognize that progress may not be linear, and setbacks can occur. Perseverance is key; consistently following the plan and making adjustments as needed is essential for managing and improving mental health. By discussing these topics in the podcast, the aim is to break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage a more open dialogue. It’s vital to acknowledge that mental health is just as important as physical health and deserves attention and care. Understanding that recovery and management often require professional support and a well-rounded approach can help individuals and their loved ones navigate these challenges more effectively.

Some elderly people make unusual decisions that affect everyone around them. As they reach a certain age, some choose to make decisions that don't follow social norms or simply do what they want and stop doing what they don't want. This behavior might be because, once they retire, they are often encouraged to enjoy their life. It's important to ask them why they do certain things and to be open to accepting different ways of thinking. As people age, they often reflect on their lives and prioritize what truly matters to them. This can lead to a desire to live more authentically, even if it means breaking away from societal expectations. For example, some may choose to pursue hobbies they never had time for before, or they might express opinions and beliefs more freely. Understanding this perspective requires empathy and a willingness to engage in open dialogue. By asking them about their motivations and listening without judgment, we can learn to appreciate their choices and perhaps gain valuable insights into our own lives. It's an opportunity to embrace diversity in thought and behavior, recognizing that everyone has a unique way of navigating life's journey, especially in their later years.

In this podcast episode, we have an interview with Caroline. She delves into how our surroundings significantly impact our stress levels and overall well-being. Caroline explains that the environment we inhabit can either contribute to our stress or help us feel more relaxed and at ease. During the interview, she provides valuable insights into how we can become more aware of our personal lifestyle preferences and shares practical strategies and tips for creating a more supportive and stress-free environment.  Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the connection between your surroundings and your mental health, and to discover actionable steps you can take to create a more harmonious and fulfilling life. Book recommended: Tiny Habits. The small changes that change everything. BJ Fogg To contact Caroline https://www.caroline-thor.com/podcast/episodes/

In this episode, I explain the meaning of the term Revenge bed procrastination. It describes the common practice of attempting to complete unfinished tasks from the day just before bedtime. This concept encourages us to reflect on our nighttime routines and emphasizes the significance of what we do before we sleep. Many of us fall into the trap of trying to catch up on the day's work during those last few moments before bed. It’s essential to recognize that everyone needs time to decompress. Engaging in stressful activities right before sleeping can negatively affect our rest and overall well-being. Learning to say no to additional tasks, delegating caregiving responsibilities, and setting aside dedicated time for self-care are important steps. By involving others in our daily responsibilities, we can share the load and reduce our stress. Furthermore, taking a few minutes each day and a few hours each week for filling out our cups is vital. This time allows us to recharge, ensuring we are better equipped to handle our daily responsibilities and maintain a healthier balance in our lives.

In this podcast, I address the challenges women face in various aspects of life. Women are often scrutinized for their appearance, whether they have children, their marital status, and their responsibilities towards elderly parents. Before being hired, women must prove their knowledge and worth, and even after securing a job, they must continually validate their value. Society imposes caregiver roles on women, expecting them to care for children, the sick, and the elderly. This expectation extends beyond personal life and infiltrates professional settings, where women experience microaggressions and biases. These societal pressures can lead many women, who unexpectedly become caregivers, to leave their jobs. It's crucial to speak up and bring awareness to these issues. The importance of women's well-being cannot be overstated. Addressing these challenges and advocating for change is essential for creating a more equitable and supportive environment for all women.

In this podcast, I emphasize the crucial role of raising children with feminist values. When we empower our children with these principles, we pave the way for a future where those in power can lead society towards more equitable and respectful treatment for all. The persistence of machismo in our culture often stems from women teaching boys that there will always be a woman to cater to their needs. This mindset must change. Consider community centers for the elderly: they require a dedicated team to manage cleaning, administration, caregiving, and meal preparation. This clearly illustrates that caring for an elderly person is a multifaceted job that cannot be handled by just one individual. It's unrealistic and unfair to expect a single person to shoulder such a burden at home. The reality is that caring for the elderly, much like many other responsibilities, necessitates the collaboration and support of everyone in the household. Each family member must contribute to create a balanced and supportive environment. By teaching our children feminist values, we instill in them the importance of shared responsibilities and mutual respect, which are fundamental for a harmonious and just society. Together, we can challenge and dismantle harmful stereotypes, ensuring a better future for everyone.

In today's podcast, I interview the founders of McKenzie Meets Alzheimer’s. They explain how their project started and provide information, tips, activities, and useful tools to create good moments for families with patients who have this disease. Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Disease (mackenziemeetsalzheimers.com)

In this podcast, I offer you three pieces of advice I´ve just learnt while visitng home: Invite Others to Help Care for Your Loved One: Sharing the responsibility of caregiving can lighten your load and provide better support for your loved one.Don't Wait Until Tomorrow to Do the Things You Want to Do: Embrace the present and make time for your passions and interests today.Avoid Overloading Yourself with Activities; Be Mindful of What You Do: Focus on being present and intentional with your actions, prioritizing quality over quantity.