A New Year, A New You?

Have you boarded the roller coaster of emotions the Holidays bring every?year? Are they compounded by serving as a care partner to someone who is experiencing dementia? As you look to the?New?Year?are you tempted to write down resolutions that you cross your fingers and hope you will care about long enough to make a significant, consistent change? Or have you already given up on the idea of resolutions due to prior unsuccessful attempts at changing your behavior?

Researchers who’ve studied behavior change describe how important it is for a person desiring change to take themselves “off autopilot (1).” This can be done with reminders about future benefits you’ll experience if your behavior changes. It can also be done by practicing intentional awareness when you’re stressed. By being aware that you’re becoming stressed, this gives you the ability to act on your own behalf. You can then prevent stress-related pressure channeling you toward prior, self-defeating patterns of behavior like eating for comfort or brushing off effortful activity like exercise.

Another significant action you can take to change your behavior is to intentionally ally yourself with people who support you in your commitment to change. By expressing your thoughts and emotions to another person who does not cast judgement but assists you process what you’re experiencing can lead to a more mindful experience of living. It also prevents guilt and shame while empowering you toward health!

If you’re a care partner who wants more information about managing the stresses associated with caregiving, please reach out!

Source:

1.?https://www.cuimc.columbia.edu/news/science-behind-behavior-change

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