Thriving Through Caregiving

Heart To Yours FLS
May 2
3 min read

Who’s taking care of you while you’re taking care of everyone else?

That question hit me hard because, if I’m honest, the answer is: no one. Just me.

In the past couple of years—especially the last few months—life has stretched me in ways I never imagined. I’ve been caring for aging parents, navigating co-parenting with a narcissist, protecting my middle school son from toxic behavior, and somewhere along the way… I tend to forget about me.

I have gotten sick.

I feel guilt.

And I have asked myself, if something happens to me, who will take care of my son and my parents?

That question is both terrifying and sobering. It’s what makes caregiving such a complex role—especially for women who are holding so much on their own. But through all the tears, prayers, and breakdowns, I’m learning how to not just survive caregiving—but to thrive through it.

Thriving Doesn't Mean Perfection—It Means Progress

To thrive is to grow, develop, and press forward—even in hard seasons. Thriving is a process, not a performance. It’s not a finish line—it’s a choice we make every day, even when we feel like we’re barely hanging on.

Here are a few ways I’m learning to thrive through caregiving, one moment, one breath, one prayer at a time:

1. Lean Into Your Support System 🤝

I struggle to trust people or ask for help. With no living siblings, a minor child, and a deeply personal history of being the strong one, leaning on others isn't easy.

But these past few months reminded me of the gift of girlfriends—those real, ride-or-die friends who show up with encouragement, perspective, and the kind of love that says, “You’re not alone.”

Let your people in. Let them listen, hold space, and speak life into you. You don’t have to carry it all alone.

2. Stay Rooted in Your Spiritual Life ✝️

My faith is my foundation. In moments of weariness, prayer and worship have been my lifeline.

✨ I pray daily.

✨ I worship in moments of gratitude and when I feel empty.

✨ I read scripture for guidance and strength.

My spiritual walk reminds me that I’m not just a caregiver—I’m a daughter of God, covered and carried even when I feel like I have nothing left to give.

3. Be Present with Those You’re Caring For ❤️

Caregiving is hard—but it’s also filled with sacred moments.

I hug my son every chance I get.

I tell my parents I love them—every single day.

I take mental snapshots of laughter, conversations, and those little moments that won’t last forever.

Loving those we care for helps anchor us in the why behind what we do.

4. Prioritize Your Health & Wellness (Even When It’s Hard) 💪🏽

I’ll be honest—this is where I struggle most.

When caregiving takes over, I put myself on the back burner. That includes missing workouts, skipping meals, and ignoring signs my body is running low. But I know I feel better, stronger, and more capable when I move my body—especially through strength training and exercise.

Even when I fall off, I always come back. Because thriving includes tending to yourself, too.

5. Give Yourself Grace—This Is a Journey, Not a Test 🕊️

You’re not failing if you feel tired.

You’re not weak because you need rest.

You’re not selfish for wanting a moment to yourself.

Thriving is an ongoing action.

You are growing. You are doing your best. And you are allowed to take up space in your own life, even while caring for others.

To the Caregivers Reading This…

Please remember this:

🌿 You matter too.

🌿 You’re allowed to ask for help.

🌿 Your wellness matters just as much as your loved ones’.

Thriving through caregiving isn’t about doing it perfectly—it’s about finding your rhythm, honoring your needs, and leaning into grace. You are not alone, and you are doing a beautiful job. 💛