The Caring Way edition 4 | Page 20

Building essential life skills for future resilience

Some easy ways to grow your skillset so you can keep handling the big stuff
Being a young carer shows that you have huge empathy and compassion , that you ’ re practical and dedicated , and that you can handle the small stuff – and the big stuff .
It can be hard to imagine the future , especially when you ’ re super busy in the day to day . But it ’ s always a good idea to make some time look after yourself and grow your skillset .
There are lots of online resources that can support you to learn useful and practical skills , at your own pace . They can help you to take care of yourself , balance your responsibilities , prepare for the future and can even help to make your life easier . We ’ ve picked out some skills you might like to get started with .
Time management
When you have a lot on your plate , like caring for someone and going to school or university , it ’ s useful to manage your time wisely . You can do this by making schedules , setting goals and finding time to relax and take care of yourself .
Communication
Communicating with others in a clear way is very important . It helps you have better relationships with your loved ones , friends and people who support you . Try to share your feelings and needs openly and kindly .
Carer Gateway has created a handy learning module on communicating effectively , check it out : https :// loom . ly / xTLyQLY
Managing stress
Caring for someone can be a bit overwhelming at times and that ’ s why it ’ s important to find ways to manage stress . You can do this by trying breathing exercises , relaxing activities or doing things you enjoy .
Carer Gateway ’ s self-guided coaching can help you to learn how to deal with stress : www . carergateway . gov . au / servicesand-support
Understanding money
Knowing about money is important . Learn about budgeting , saving money and being responsible with your finances . It can help you be more independent in the future .
Find out how to do a budget on the MoneySmart website : www . moneysmart . gov . au / budgeting / how-to-do-a-budget
Or , your complete guide to budgeting will talk you through the steps to making a budget : www . mybudget . com . au / personal-budget-services /
These websites also have tips about saving money !
Speaking up for yourself
Don ’ t be afraid to speak up for yourself and ask for help when you need it . It ’ s okay to say what you need and how you feel – it shows that you are strong and taking care of yourself .
Setting goals
Think about what you want to achieve in the short term and long term . Setting goals can help you focus on your plans and dreams and work towards them , step by step .
Find practical strategies for managing your time on Australian National Universities website : www . anu . edu . au / students / academic-skills / study-skills / time-management
20 | The Caring Way