Stewardship vs.Obligation for Caregivers

Caregiver Stewardship instead Obligation

"I've Got To," "I need to," "I have to."  These are all statements made by all caregivers at some point, and, sadly, all too frequently.  The feeling of obligation drives us to push ourselves to dangerous stress levels for our health, finances, and emotional stability.  The way we can push back is to recognize that we don't own the problem.  We didn't cause it, and we can't fix it.  We are stewards.  Stewardship frees us to accept we are doing the best we can with what we have.  Feeling obligated can quickly takes us into resentment, which will only compromise our ability to live healthy lives and serve as healthy caregivers.  Adopting an attitude of stewardship, however, helps us breathe easier and treat ourselves with mercy—all of which equips us to be a better caregiver.