Most cell phones provide a warning when the battery is getting low. Some even have the option of going into a power-saving mode. Once the phone is connected to a charger, it indicates the current percentage of power left in the battery. Some chargers show how long it will take until the battery is completely recharged. Wouldn’t it be nice if our bodies did that?
But don’t they? When we are caring for others, we may ignore the warnings and go into a power-saving mode so that we can keep working even when we find ourselves tired or stressed. We work a little less, limit communication, or just plain hide from others. But at some point, we have to completely recharge. I just spoke to someone today who told me how tired he was, and with a yawn said maybe he’d go play golf. I suggested going home and resting completely so that he would be ready for the next day’s challenges.
Sometimes, we just have to stop and recharge. Research always tells us how important it is to rest, rehydrate and recharge. We know that an uncharged phone won’t do us any good if we want to call or text. But do we remember that an uncharged body, mind, soul, or spirit will do us little good either if we want to be fully present to help others? Take a moment to consider how to recharge, and decide on the amount of time you need to be at your best again – before that low battery light comes on.
Care For The Caregiver 