After my Mom passed away last year, I moved my Dad out here to live with us. We just sent our youngest off to college so we have the extra room and my Dad needs the company and the help. I am a nurturing person and like caring for others, but I have had a hard time carving out time for myself. I feel comfortable taking time for me when I have taken care of the household chores. After I have cleaned, cooked, taken my Dad to the doctor and made sure my kids, who are all under 26, have health insurance, I sit down to read a book or take a long bath, if I really feeling decadent. My husband works for King County so to be covered under his insurance I have to participate in the Healthy IncentivesSM Program.
My individual action plan choice
I’m doing the WebMD online program and I’m using the stress planner. When I took my wellness assessment my results said that the amount of stress in my life may affect my future health. I am really looking forward to being a grandmother, so I want to take care of myself and be healthy for a long time. I am amazed at the difference practicing one stress management technique can make. There are several that are recommended and I clicked on them to find out what they are. Some aren’t right for me. But, positive thinking has really helped. Instead of thinking at the beginning of the day of all that I have to do, I think about the time I will get to spend with people I love as I do it. Like, if I have to take my Dad to the doctor, we get to talk in the car on the way there. I have also realized how great stress management makes me feel so I made sure to practice other techniques, too.
Why this works for me
My day is so full of activity that I have to work whatever it is into what I am already doing. Instead of finding time to do one more thing, I can integrate how I think about things into what I am already doing.
Other people this might work for
Anyone who’s looking for a quick and simple plan
Someone who is very busy caring for kids or parents
Tips for success
Make sure you start your program before April 23rd if you need to skip any week for vacation, etc.
The stress management readings give more tips on stress management techniques and why they work.
