The Importance of Image & Self Esteem (part 2)

Image & Self Esteem (Part 2)

Now let's create that positive, take charge image. The next time your charge is asleep, in the hospital, watching TV, or zonked out on those oh so fabulous pain pills, plan ahead to do something! Instead of collapsing into the nearest chair (gosh it looks so good) start your pre production (that's 'getting ready' in layman's terms).

Pre-Production

1. Put together an entire out fit (or two) that is neat, comfortable, clean, and fits (so many of us revert to baggy clothes, just because we're exhausted and they seem easier to wear). Pick a fabric that does not wrinkle, so you can travel in it and sleep in it if you have to. Do you have an outfit, scarf, etc., that makes people smile? Let's wear it! A positive, first impression/response from the cast (your medical community) is your entree to better service for you charge.

2. Hang the entire outfit on two or three hangers that you tie together along with all undegarments, accessories, shoes, jewerlry, etc. in plastic bags. Put everything in a hang up bag. Pretend you're going on a cruise (we wish).

Now you can dress in less than two minutes, because everything is in one place. You won't spend time looking for that elusive shoe. You'll beat the emergency response team with time to spare.

3. Everyday, no matter what, find five minute gaps in your caregiving chores to shower, shave, or wash your hair. I know it seems impossible, but if you've decided ahead of time that you'll use this free time wisely, you'll get started right away, instead of collapsing into the nearest chair. You'll not finish any task all at once, but you'll do a little each time until it's all done. It takes me a day to give myself a manicure, with all of the care giving interruptions (two days for a pedicure).

4. So during your next free moment start that manicure or pedicure. These take time, but if you decide that all day today is manicure day, you'll do it in stages. Men as well. Remember, the sum of all these parts presents the positive groomed image, which evokes a positve response, which in turn makes your job as a caregiver easier and much less stressful.