Setting Self-Care Goals
Goal setting is motivating. Setting self-care goals can keep you accountable, give you a sense of purpose, and help you feel accomplished when you reach them. But both setting and achieving goals can be difficult, even without the complexities of care partnership added to the mix. Here are some strategies to help you set and stick to your goals.
Identify Your“ Why”
It can be easier to work toward goals when you identify the why behind them. Naming the why makes it more meaningful and clarifies the steps you need to take toward achieving a goal. Instead of“ I need to exercise more,” try,“ I want to have energy and stamina to play with my grandchildren or hike with my loved one.” The why gets you started or keeps you going on the days when life or care partnership might otherwise get in the way.
Celebrate Your Wins
Prioritize progress, not perfection. Celebrate throughout the process: not only when you achieve a goal, but as you make progress with every step along the way. If your goal is to finish a 5K, applaud yourself for getting out the door, taking a walk, and beyond. Acknowledge each success and pat yourself on the back for every positive step.
Make Your Goals Specific
A specific goal is easier to track. Something concrete— like“ I’ ll meditate for five minutes every morning for one week”— is easier to measure than“ I’ ll work on taking better care of myself.”
Give Yourself Grace
Like care partnership itself, accomplishing goals isn’ t always straightforward. There will be setbacks, challenges and detours. Anticipate and embrace these as part of the process, use them as opportunities to learn and adjust, and keep moving forward.
This resource is part of Facing Parkinson’ s Together: A Guide for Care Partners, created by The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson ' s Research. To download the full guide, please visit michaeljfox. org / care-partners or scan the QR code.