Help with looking after myself

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I'm in desperate need of help. I need to start looking after myself but have a poor record of liking myself let alone caring for myself properly. I lead a full life, have a family to care for and have a physical job/business so need to keep my body and brain well maintained especially since I'm getting older now (42). I know what to do and what works for me but find it very very difficult sticking to a schedule long term because I find maintenance boring. I feel I need someone to remind me of the things I have to do and talk me through the tough times but I can't afford a personal assistant at this stage and they probably wouldn't want to be my shrink at the same time anyway. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Can Family members be your personal assistant?. Also electronically there are apps for just about anything these days.

Some people find a Fit-bit or similar electronic device useful for increasing activity, monitoring diet, sleep, and so on. You didn't say which areas of care you are hoping to work on. Another strategy is a watch or cell phone that gives you alerts for such things as standing to stretch while on a long shift of sedentary activity, reminds you to take that walk at lunchtime, and reminds you it's time to start your bedtime routine.

Also learn to praise yourself for small accomplishments. "Teeth are brushed - good job." Although it would seem infantilizing, many of us need to think of ourselves as lab rats capable of being trained. LOL - but true.

If you give more details of the kind of care you need, we can be more helpful, I think.

I also liked the suggestion of involving a family member, but that depends on the person.

Something that has worked for me is to see a therapist, not super frequently, but just to remind me of my goals and get me back on track. It's perfectly all right to ask a therapist to do this. And they can help you with any mood or cognitive issues, too!

http://www.schkidules.com/schkidules/Ro ... le-300.jpg

I use something like this. My OT (occupational therapist) made it for me. You can just order these online.