Did you ever wonder how some people are always upbeat and positive? Compassionate and generous people are happier, healthier, more popular, and more successful in life according to a New York Times wellness report.
They stated the Dalai Lama’s “wise-selfishness” theory can be put into action. He states, “If you would like to be selfish, you should do it in a very intelligent way. The stupid way to be selfish is… seeking happiness for ourselves alone. … the intelligent way to be selfish is to work for the welfare of others.”
Caregivers and Altruism
Being generous and altruistic will result in happiness rather than being solely out for oneself. Caregivers know very well that the time, patience, and selfless acts they perform every day for their loved ones may not always be for being happy and popular. Let us look at the 4 strategies in everyday life which can be applied to being a happy, healthy caregiver.
Meditation and Positive Thoughts
When sitting quietly, send kind thoughts to people you love and then to those you are neutral about or are difficult to get along with, starting with yourself. Send thoughts of happiness, safety, health, and easy living. Studies have shown this type of meditation can increase social connectedness and decrease depression. If prayer is a part of your life, here is where it can be
teamed up with meditation and be beneficial to you. Meditation has a lot of destressing benefits that caregivers can certainly use. Stress is a big part of daily life these days, so take time for yourself to quietly reflect and decompress.
Talking to Others
Positive interactions during the day do not need to be just about your loved ones and the person you are caring for. Increase positive interactions with strangers you meet at the grocery store, doctor’s office, or coffee shop. Short, little conversations during the day can contribute to overall happiness. This will also help you feel connected socially.
Dedicate Everyday Tasks to Other People
When doing small things for yourself, offer them to others. Say to yourself- I’m eating this sandwich to stay strong and helpful to others and those I care about. Self-care is extremely important for your well-being of course, but if you are sick or depressed, you are “no good” to your loved ones and others. Everything you do to take care of yourself should be guilt-free.
As caregivers, we give outward all too often without thinking of our own needs. Whatever motivates you to provide self-care for yourself, do it.
Be Generous
Studies mentioned in the New York Times state FMRI scans show that being generous activates the same part of the brain as dessert, “the helpers high”. Nothing will take the place of enjoying a warm brownie, but small acts of generosity and kindness go a long way to feeling satisfied.
Generosity comes in many forms, including the time you give to others. As caregivers, it can be important to appreciate the amount of kindness you put into the world by caring for others.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has been providing excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help the elderly and disabled live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information contact us by clicking here, or by calling (718)-979-6900.
