At its core, caregiving is a massive tangle of contradictions. It can be both fulfilling and draining, rewarding and devastating, the easiest decision ever made and the hardest thing to sustain… all at the exact same time.

But the most important contradiction is one that requires constant attention – the act of giving someone else all the care and support they need without losing yourself in the process. And it’s not easy.

The phrase, “caregiving is a full-time job,” carries truth but slightly misses the mark. Because caregiving is so much more than a full-time job. You can clock out at the end of the workday, log off from your email, and shut down your computer – but you can’t sign offline from your role as a caregiver. It’s not a full-time job; it’s a lifetime job. And that kind of commitment can become incredibly overwhelming at times.

That’s exactly why self-care deserves the same attention and dedication given to caregiving responsibilities. When the never-ending to-do list grows longer and the day fills up with one urgent task after another, the first thing to be sacrificed is often the small, easily dismissed moment meant for personal well-being.

It's not easy to take time for self-care when someone else seems to need it more. It can even feel selfish. But self-care is not selfish. Tending to mental and physical health is integral to sustaining the role of a caregiver.

In that spirit, here are top tips for finding some balance between the daily demands of caregiving and maintaining personal well-being:

1. Master Time Management

Time is the most valuable resource. Effective time management can help regain control and reduce stress. Here’s how:

• Write everything down: From small chores (vacuum the living room) to big responsibilities (take Mom to the doctor), keeping a running list clears mental clutter and reduces stress.

• Break large tasks into smaller steps: “Do taxes” can feel overwhelming, but “find last year’s tax paperwork” and “organize this year’s documents” are more manageable.

• Use “hidden” time wisely:  If an hour is available while a loved one naps, tackling a small, specific task can boost efficiency and create a sense of accomplishment.

2. Let Go of Perfectionism

Caregiving and perfectionism do not mix. Striving for perfection only adds stress and leads to burnout. Instead:

• Embrace “good enough”: The kitchen doesn’t need to be spotless if the dishes are done. It’s okay if dinner is frozen pizza – everyone is fed, and that’s what matters.

• Give yourself grace: Let go of the pressure to do everything flawlessly. Accept that some days will be messy, and that’s okay.

3. Learn to Ask for (and Accept!) Help

Caregiving doesn’t have to be done alone. Asking for help doesn’t diminish dedication—it’s a sign of strength.

• Start small: Ask a neighbor to pick up groceries or a friend to sit with your loved one while you take a break.

• Consider respite care:  Many community organizations offer temporary caregiving services so you can recharge. Check out ARCH National Respite Network for resources in your area.

For additional caregiving strategies, download NorthShore’s free Managing Incontinence Guide for Caregivers to help navigate daily challenges with confidence.

4. Prioritize ‘Me Time’ Every Week

Setting aside 1-2 hours per week for personal time is essential. Treating this time as a non-negotiable priority helps maintain long-term well-being.

• Choose activities that replenish energy and spark joy: Reading, watching a favorite show, meditating, taking a walk, or talking to a therapist can help reset the mind.

• Shift your mindset: Viewing self-care as equally important as a loved one’s doctor’s appointments can make it easier to commit to personal time.

5. Build a Support Network

Caregiving can feel isolating, but connection is key to emotional well-being.

• Join a caregiver support group: Talking with others who understand your challenges can be a powerful source of emotional support.

• Find groups tailored to your needs: Search online for caregiver communities focused on specific conditions (Alzheimer’s, cancer, etc.).

6. Make Life Easier Whenever Possible

There’s no award for enduring unnecessary stress. Look for ways to simplify caregiving tasks:

• Use grocery delivery services: They may not pick the perfect apples, but they’ll save you time.

• Skip tedious chores: If folding laundry takes too long, leave it in the basket. Everyone will survive.

• Invest in high-quality care products:

• MEGAMAX® Premium Adult Diapers can reduce the number of daily changes.

• XL Supreme Quilted Cleansing Wipes make diaper changes faster and easier.

• EternaDry® Booster Pads provide extra protection, reducing stress when you’re out and about.

• MagicSorb® Premium Disposable Bed Protectors protect beds and furniture from leaks.

You Deserve the Same Care You Give Others

Caregivers often find it easy to take on blame when things go wrong, mistakes happen, or a loved one faces a difficult time. But it's essential to remember that self-care is a necessary part of being an effective caregiver. No matter what unfolds, caregivers always deserve the same love, care, and support that they work so hard to provide for others.