As caregivers, the words we say to ourselves and others can significantly influence our overall well-being. In this blog post, we explore the profound impact words have on our mindset, energy, mood, and stress levels. We’ll also introduce the umbrella analogy to illustrate how positive thoughts and skills can protect us from the rain of negative thoughts.

Why It's Important to Think About Our Words

Self-Talk and Mindset The words we use in our self-talk can shape our beliefs and attitudes. Negative self-talk can lead to a negative mindset, while positive self-talk can foster a growth mindset. Think about waking up each day. You can say, “Ugh, another tough day,” or you can think, “It’s going to be a good day.” This simple shift can change your entire outlook.

Impact on Energy and Mood Words can either drain or boost our energy and mood. Negative words and phrases can make us feel exhausted and discouraged, whereas positive and affirming...

Are you feeling like nothing is working in your Caregiver Life? Are you getting down on yourself with little hope that things will change? You're not alone. In this tough season, when caregiving feels overwhelming, it's crucial to remember three things.

1. You Are Not Alone: It might sound cliché, but acknowledging that you're not alone is essential. While it doesn't instantly alleviate the challenges, understanding that others have been there, too, can provide perspective and inspiration.

2. Caregiving Has Its Ups and Downs: Caregiving is a rollercoaster with its share of ups and downs. Recognizing this truth is the first step towards navigating the tough times effectively.

3. Stop Being So Hard on Yourself: Don't let missed tasks or mistakes define your worth. You can't control everything, and that's okay. Instead of self-criticism, ask yourself what went wrong, why it happened, and work towards a better plan.

Taking a Pause

Now, let's explore a crucial step in...

Stress and anxiety can feel like  carrying around a very heavy backpack.  It feels like you can’t turn off your mind whether it’s worry, anger, or the thoughts of everything that has to be done or all the demands on you.  Your chest gets tightens when you hear a text alert or a phone ring.  

As working women  caregiving you are stretched and stressed at the highest levels and your body and mind are going to show signs and symptoms of stress and anxiety.  If you stay at that higher level, something is going to break and affect your overall well-being.  

Find a morning routine and mindset can help reduce and release stress.

Start your day with intention and a fresh mindset.  Choose to fill your mind with happiness, gratitude and joy each morning.   

Each day is different.  If I know my spouse has an appointment, I might say,  Today, I’m going to be optimistic and grateful for his oncology...

Hello, and welcome to this special episode, a milestone, the 200th installment of the Caregiver Cup Podcast. I'm thrilled to share this journey with you and delve into the essence of our caregiving community.

Our story began in October 2020 as The Caregiver Wife Podcast, a personal endeavor to share the lessons learned while navigating the challenging terrain of caregiving. What started as a coping mechanism evolved into a passion project—more than just filling your cup; it's about empowerment, becoming your best self, and discovering strategies to enhance this caregiver life.

Let's take a moment to reflect on our evolution. We've been recognized, ranking 34th in FeedSpot's 80 Best Caregiver Podcasts and in the top 10% globally according to Listen Score. With 182 solo episodes and 18 guests, including spouses, siblings, authors, health professionals, activists, and working women, the podcast has become a diverse tapestry of experiences.

 Thank you for the...

How many of you laid in bed and wished that the world would just go away?   When I was growing up I remember that song…. Make the world go away,  (play)   I know I am aging myself.  

Yes it’s normal to feel like that on occasion.  But reality is, we have to get up and live our life.     

What does your day look like?

• A day of doctor appointments
• A day of chemotherapy or physical therapy
• Is your spouse having surgery today
• Is it staying home and taking care of your spouse
• Are you working?
• Are you trying to figure out how to get that appliance repaired
• Do you have to clean the house or do the laundry
• Grocery shopping
• Launching a new product in your business?

What is your mind saying this morning to you?   

• I am stressed
• I am anxious
• I am struggling 
• I am sad
• I am angry
• I am frustrated
• It’s ground hog’s day
• I am excited
• I am feeling joy

Our minds are...