Spring cleaning isn’t just about decluttering your home.
Sometimes, what needs clearing out the most… is our mindset.

If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking:

“I should be doing more,”
“I can’t rest,”

or

“No one else can do this right,”
— you’re not alone.

But here’s the thing: beliefs like these don’t just add pressure — they quietly wear us down.

After working with thousands of dementia caregivers, I’ve noticed that it’s not always the tasks themselves that cause burnout. It’s the invisible expectations caregivers place on themselves while doing them.

Let’s take a breath, and unpack 3 common beliefs that could be doing more harm than good — and what to tell yourself instead.

Belief #1: "I Should Be Able To Do This On My Own"

This one feels noble — like you’re proving your devotion.
But it’s built on the false idea that asking for help = failure.

The truth?
Caregiving is complex, emotional, and often medical-level work.
No one — not even a trained professional — should be doing it solo.

Try replacing it with:

“Asking for help makes me a more effective caregiver, not a weaker one.”

Allowing others in isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a sign of wisdom.

Belief #2: "If I Rest, I'm Being Selfish"

Guilt thrives in silence, and this belief loves to whisper when you sit down, say no, or prioritize your health.

The truth?
Rest is not selfish.
It’s how you preserve your capacity to keep going — emotionally and physically.

Try replacing it with:

“When I care for myself, I protect my ability to care for others.”

Belief #3: "I'm The Only One Who Can Do It Right"

Perfectionism often comes from love — but also fear.
Fear that no one else will notice the same signs.
Fear that a break will lead to decline.
Fear of what might happen if you loosen your grip.

The truth?
Letting someone help, even imperfectly, doesn’t mean you’ve failed.
It means you’re choosing sustainability over burnout.

Try replacing it with:

“Letting go isn’t giving up — it’s giving myself room to breathe.”

One Thing To Try This Week

Write down one belief that’s been showing up in your thoughts lately.
Cross it out.
And underneath it, write the new phrase you’re ready to try instead.

Stick it on your mirror. Your fridge. Your car dashboard.
Let it be your reminder: caregiving can be reshaped — starting with how you talk to yourself.

Final Thoughts

If no one’s told you lately:
You’re doing hard things with so much heart.
And even if you feel invisible — you are deeply essential.

✨ You don’t have to carry unhelpful beliefs just because they’re familiar.
This is your permission slip to release them.

Until there’s a cure, I’m here helping you advocate with clarity, heart, and strength.

🫂 Join the Conversation:

• Need a community where you can ask for help and get real support?
  Join my FREE Caregiver Support Group here
  👉 Dementia Caregivers Success & Support Network.

📚 Resources to Support You:

• Grab your Medical Assistance Planner and get organized.

• Explore the Dementia Caregivers Academy Course for in-depth strategies and support.

• Download our free journal pages on the Resources page.

  
  
  

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