Now that we’ve entered the new year, goals and intentions you can set for yourself is probably top of mind. After an eventful 2020, self-care should be at the top of your list when considering what priorities you should keep throughout 2021. While this goal is relevant to virtually everyone – caregivers, parents and members of the military and their families should consider how they prioritize their own self-care this year.
When you’re responsible for taking care of the health of others, protecting our country or raising children, it can be easy to let those noble callings become an all-consuming force in your life — even at the risk of your health. It’s vital to remember that your well-being matters as well. Here are three basic, proactive actions you can take to ensure that the care you give doesn’t wear you down.
Add the Good
Those who prioritize the care and protection of others often neglect their own care. In 2021, why not do the same for yourself? Something as simple as penciling in a 10-minute walk every day after dinner or swapping cookies for apples on your grocery list may make a big difference in both long-term health and short-term attitude. Go ahead and sign up for that online class you’ve always wanted to take. Doing so can feel like a luxury, but prioritizing self-care with actions like these is truly necessary.
Subtract the Bad
Sometimes we need more than adding good habits to develop a better path towards well-being. This year, work on ditching some of your bad habits too! This could be as simple as opting for a book or podcast instead of scrolling endlessly on your phone or as tough as quitting smoking. Another option? Try taking control of your environment by creating a cleaner and less cluttered space. Setting tasks like a closet cleanout or a deep clean of your home can help set you up for success and a better mindset going into the new year. Could getting rid of unworn clothes or crossing off those annoying chores increase your overall well-being? Only one way to find out!
Don't Go at It Alone
If you only take one thing away from this blog, it should be this: It’s okay to ask for help before you need it. Think of it this way: you don’t start looking for a gas station when your tank’s empty — you fill up before you’re stranded on the shoulder of the road. Though asking for help can feel challenging and even uncomfortable, it’s a sign that you’re prioritizing your self-care and well-being. A proactive approach like this is essential for you and those you care for, as it puts you in the best mental and physical state possible. If you’re feeling like your needle’s approaching empty, reach out and ask for help.
The American Red Cross is dedicated to supporting individuals, families and communities every day, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and times of disaster. Find out how the Red Cross can help you practice self-care.
Hero Care App
The Red Cross has supported military families for about 140 years. In our earliest days, that meant hand-delivering messages from the battlefield. Today, it means putting the full power of the Red Cross right in the pockets of military families. With our new Hero Care mobile app, we are making it easy for service members, veterans and their families to connect with us from anywhere around the world, exactly when they need us most.
The Emergency App
This all-inclusive app lets you monitor more than 35 different severe weather and emergency alerts, to help keep you and your loved ones safe.
Self Care Before, During and After Disaster
Career Development
Nurse Assistant and CNA training
Military and Veteran Caregiver Network
The Military and Veteran Caregiver Network (MVCN) offers peer-based support and services to connect those providing care to service members and veterans living with wounds, illnesses, injuries and/or aging.
Sources: The Loop and American Red Cross