Learn to Share How You Feel
Being a parent or carer is not easy. You spend so much time looking after others that it can feel impossible to take care of yourself. Many of us are not taught how to manage our emotions or share them with those closest to us.
Talking about your feelings is important. It helps prevent misunderstandings and improves your relationships with loved ones. By sharing how you feel, you also set an example for others, especially children, showing that it’s okay to express emotions.
Why Talking About Feelings Matters
Sharing your emotions with loved ones can improve your relationships and reduce stress. It helps people understand what you’re going through and shows that emotions are normal and okay.
For children, this is especially important. The Child Mind Institute explains that talking about feelings helps kids learn to manage their own emotions and build stronger connections. When you talk to children about your feelings, you teach them to do the same.
For example, saying, “I’m feeling a bit tired because I had a busy day,” helps children understand emotions and encourages them to share their own feelings. This openness creates trust and makes family relationships stronger.
5 Simple Tools for Self-Care and Communication
Taking care of yourself and learning to share your feelings doesn’t have to be hard.
Here are five easy ways to get started:
1. Pay Attention to Your Emotions
Take a moment each day to think about how you’re feeling. Writing it down or talking to someone you trust can help you understand your emotions better.
2. Use Simple Language to Talk About Feelings
Be clear and honest about your emotions. For example, “I’m feeling overwhelmed today” is a simple way to let others know how you feel. The Child Mind Institute encourages parents to do this to help children learn about emotions.
3. Create a Safe Space for Conversations
Make sure your loved ones feel comfortable talking about their feelings too. Listen without judging and let them know it’s okay to feel how they feel.
4. Make Time for Self-Care
Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. A short walk, a quiet moment to yourself, or an early bedtime can help you feel more balanced. According to the Anna Freud Centre, sleep and exercise are key to managing stress.
5. Practice Listening
When someone shares their feelings with you, focus on listening. Sometimes, people just need to feel heard. Being a good listener strengthens your relationships and shows you care.
How Yurtle Supports Parents and Carers
Yurtle understands how hard it can be to balance caregiving and self-care. That’s why we offer tools to help parents and carers take care of themselves while supporting their loved ones.
Our Key Solutions:
Support Team for Care-sharing: Build a network of family, friends, and professionals to share caregiving duties, giving you time to focus on yourself.
Educational Resources: Learn practical tips for managing stress, improving communication, and balancing caregiving and self-care.
Back-up Care Marketplace: Access quick support during emergencies so you don’t have to face challenges alone.
Caregiver Insurance: Financial support during caregiving crises, providing peace of mind with a continuity of care promise.
These tools make it easier for carers to take care of themselves and their loved ones.
Make Time for You
Caring for others is a big responsibility, but it’s just as important to care for yourself. By paying attention to your feelings and sharing them, you can reduce stress and build stronger connections with your loved ones.
With small steps like self-care routines, open communication, and using tools like those offered by Yurtle, you can create a healthier, happier environment for everyone.
Let’s make self-care a priority this year for you and for the people who depend on you.