Lean Into Your People—They’re There for a Reason
Degree by Design: A Smarter Way to Upskill
Self-Care Isn’t Optional—It’s Oxygen
You Don’t Have to Do It All—Hire Out What You Can
There’s no shame in outsourcing tasks that zap your energy or time. Whether it’s hiring a housecleaner once a month, using grocery delivery services, or even bringing in a part-time home health aide, these investments give you breathing room. Think of them as reclaiming hours you can use to recharge or focus on work without feeling pulled in a dozen directions. Your presence matters more than your performance in every chore.
Stress Management Isn’t Fluff—It’s a Lifeline
When your world feels like it’s constantly on fire, you need outlets that help you put the flames out. Stress management might look like journaling before bed, getting back into your favorite hobby, or even just taking five minutes to breathe deeply in your car before walking back inside. The key is making relaxation a habit instead of a reactive fix. Find what works for you and keep it in rotation like your go-to playlist.
Don’t Be Afraid to Flex Your Work Life
Employers are increasingly open to flexible work policies, but they won’t know your needs unless you ask. Whether it’s remote work, compressed hours, or a shift in responsibilities, there’s room for negotiation if you present a solid plan. Approaching your boss with transparency and solutions shows professionalism, not weakness. You’d be surprised how many managers are willing to support caregivers when given the chance.
Reimagine What Work Looks Like
Sometimes, the real fix isn’t adjusting your schedule—it’s reassessing the job entirely. If your current role is physically demanding, high-stress, or just incompatible with caregiving, it might be time to explore something with more flexibility or less intensity. This isn’t giving up; it’s evolving to meet the reality of your life. A job that honors your needs outside the office can make you a better employee and a more present caregiver.
Balancing work, caregiving, and personal needs isn’t a one-time puzzle—it’s a daily recalibration. But when you stop trying to do it all alone and start leaning into your support system, smarter tools, and better boundaries, things start to shift. You won’t get everything perfect, and you’ll still have hard days—but those days will feel a little less impossible. Ultimately, the goal isn’t to survive this chapter; it’s to live it in a way that honors both your loved one’s needs and your own life in the process.
If you or a loved one needs help appealing IHSS, discover how California Advocacy Group can help your family navigate the complexities of IHSS and secure the support you deserve for a brighter future.
