I find it easy to get caught up in my mistakes, dwelling on the things I do wrong in caring for my husband. If I let them, those thoughts can lead me into a spiral of negativity where I begin to question everything I do. I become my own worst critic without the expertise to back it up. Ten years into this role of CarePartner and I am still learning that it is okay to screw up because otherwise how will I learn to do better?

There are many more times when I do the right things, yet they pass me by unnoticed. Helping my husband with his socks, working out with him, preparing healthy meals, keeping the house clutter free to make it safer for both of us, sharing my smiles and hugs. These daily actions create a backdrop that helps me maintain a positive attitude, yet I never take the time to acknowledge their importance.  

Instead of focusing on my blunders, I need to look for the lesson and then move on. If I weigh the negative event against the many positive things I do everyday, I can realign my internal dialogue. I remember the good, put a smile on my face, and I’m ready to take on whatever new challenge CarePartnering decides to send my way.