You're a busy woman caregiver who feels pressured to be able to do it all,  juggling your career, family, caregiving, managing the household and more.

Superwoman Syndrome is exactly what it says it is - trying to be Superwoman. And more often than not, you're feeling overworked, overwhelmed and overly committed. You're also exhausted, anxious and stressed.  But don't worry - you are not alone.

According to Dr. Madeline Ann Lewis, co-author of Overcoming the Superwoman Syndrome, some of us wear this imaginary cape because we:

• Want to be the good, little girl
• Have a tendency towards people-pleasing
• Seek attention
• Want to feel like you can do it all
• You cannot say no to others
• To feel accomplished
• Have low self-esteem
• Strive for perfection

The Superwoman is also a good person, duty oriented, very responsible and truly desires to do what is right.

Symptoms of superwoman syndrome and caregiver burnout:  

• Bouts of irritability
• Inability to sleep or excessive sleep
• Memory issues
• Muscle tension
• Anxiety
• Sweating when not physically active
• Inability to concentrate
• General aches and pains

 It’s important to be aware of what your body is trying to tell you.  Aspiring to a level of perfectionism that is not attainable and sacrificing your well-being consistently will inevitably lead you down the path to caregiver stress, burnout and eventually fatigue.   It may rob you of your joy.  

Accumulated stress opens the door to a multitude of health issues, including early aging, heart disease, diabetes, obesity and gastrointestinal conditions. 

So it’s time to take off that costume and cape.  

When you recognize that superwoman syndrome or caregiver burnout is present in your caregiver life, it’s time to.  Shed that costume, untie that cape and figure out ways to overcome this.   

First and foremost it’s not easy to admit that you can’t do it all.  You don’t need to...

When life thrusts us into the role of a caregiver, the transformation we undergo can be as profound as it is challenging. Tracy Donaldson's story is a testament to this transformation. A seasoned HR professional and former corporate VP, Tracy found herself navigating the dual roles of caring for her mother and spouse while simultaneously undergoing a personal journey of self-discovery and growth.

Tracy's candid recount of her experiences sheds light on the complexities of caregiving. She speaks of the early signs that care is needed, the emotional weight of responsibility, and the practicalities of managing day-to-day logistics. This resonates with many who find themselves in similar situations—juggling the roles of caregiver, professional, and individual with personal needs.

Self-care emerges as a recurring theme throughout the episode. Tracy's personal anecdote serves as a poignant reminder that taking care of oneself is not indulgent but essential. As she shares her strategies—meditation, exercise, and staying connected with friends—it becomes clear that these practices aren't just coping mechanisms; they are lifelines that sustain caregivers through their demanding roles.

The podcast also delves into the family dynamics at play in caregiving situations. Each family member brings unique contributions, strengths, and weaknesses to the table. Tracy's own experiences with her siblings highlight the importance of recognizing and utilizing these individual differences. The conversation goes further to discuss the decision to enroll her mother in an adult day program, a move aimed at improving her socialization and mental health, illustrating the continuous adaptation required in caregiving.

An important aspect of Tracy's journey is the guilt often associated with balancing the care of loved ones and personal time. It's a common struggle for caregivers who constantly weigh their responsibilities against their own well-being. The podcast...

Happy New Year!  It’s Cathy Here!

I 'm recording this episode on January 1, 2021.  It’s  a new year.  I know a lot of us are happy to say good-bye to 2020.   

As a country and world, we faced challenges that we never thought we would ever face.  The pandemic changed our lives.  

• Did you have to change the way you worked?  
• Did you have to change the way you shopped?
• Did you have to change the way you connected with your family and friends?
• Did you have to change the way you took care of your loved one?  
• Did you change yourself personally?
• Did you take on any new routines?  

2020 taught me to NOT take things for granted.   Hugs from my family, celebrations

It taught me how to enjoy the little things.   Facetime chats, videos, board games

It taught me it’s ok to sit quiet.   I journaled more than ever

It taught me to take advantage of the situation.   I thought about my purpose

In October 2020, I started my podcast The Caregiver Wife.  I wanted to share my experiences, lessons learned and more with other Caregivers.  So I paid for a digital course and within a month, I was on air.   I have met some pretty amazing women who share their hardships, their courage and most importantly how they figure things out in their new normal as a Caregiver.

I heard the story of Dana, whose spouse is bedridden from a car accident.  They have been married for 15 years and have 4 children.  Life changed when she got the call.  She had to figure out how to work and take car of her husband.  She learned that reaching out for resource is key for her.  She has a nurse coming in 2 days a week to help with bathing and care.  She also has a physical therapist 2 times a week.  She now has all her groceries, pharmacy and essentials delivered to her home.   She is continuing to find ways to time manage better....