Did you have a restful festive break, or do you need another break to recover?
If you feel guilty about saying no to stuff, or setting boundaries for others, it might be a good time to make some changes.
If you're starting to prepare your New Year's Resolutions, I have a suggestion. Stop it.
Whilst I'm the first to admit I love a 'to do' list in a new notebook - instead of striving for things we'll have forgotten by March, why not start the year by being more present?
Feeling overwhelmed by Christmas already? With so much to do and so little time, it's easy to feel guilty for taking time for yourself. By slowing down you can be fully present for yourself and others, and reconnect with what really matters to you.
Does taking care of your wellbeing feel like too much work?
Something else to add to your 'to do' list?
It doesn't have to be.
Read my latest article below.
Want to find out more about mindfulness and how regular practice can help your mental health and wellbeing?
Here's my latest article
A conversation I had last week make me think about coaching in mental health and how coaching can be used as early intervention.
If people took care of their wellbeing the same way as their health, perhaps they wouldn't reach crisis point at all.
www.liveworkbreathe.com/articles/why...
I'm starting BSL Level 6 with www.bslfirst.com this week! I know I have lots of hard work ahead, but I love learning to sign and have met so many fantastic people on this journey.
Can't wait to get started!
Is hearing loss making you feel lonely?
My latest blog post explores how mindfulness can help.
If you have any sugggestions on managing loneliness, share in the comments.
www.liveworkbreathe.com/articles/is-...
Are hearing test apps useful?
Apps are never a replacement for medical intervention, but using an app like this could help people know what to expect at their test, and how likely they are to need hearing aids.
What do you think?
So where do you start?
Pick your moment – a 1-1 chat over coffee is likely to me more effective than trying to be heard at a big family gathering.
Use “I” statements: “I feel [emotion] when [situation] happens.”
Practice setting boundaries calmly.
What tips would you add?
Guilt and Obligation - Do you feel selfish for putting your needs first? Many families emphasize self-sacrifice, but advocating for your needs isn’t selfish.
Assumptions- “They should know what I need.”
This leads to disappointment. Your family aren’t mind-readers. (Which can be a good thing)
Power Dynamics- Family roles (e.g., parent-child) can make some people feel they lack authority to assert their needs.
Emotional Baggage - Past conflicts or unresolved issues can make conversations about your needs feel extra charged.
Fear of conflict – Nobody wants to "rock the boat" or cause tension in family relationships.
Fear of rejection – Worrying that your needs might be dismissed or criticised can make it feel safer to stay quiet.
Is it harder to talk about your hearing loss with family?
Family dynamics, emotional history, and unspoken expectations can make self-advocacy within families feel incredibly challenging.
Why is this?
Concerned about your hearing but afraid to do anything about it? Don't let fear of the unknown stop you from getting support. Here's a guide I wrote about understanding your hearing loss, and getting help.
www.liveworkbreathe.com/articles/i-h...
Contact her local fire station, they can recommend and possibly fit it free of charge. Some link to a pager that vibrates, others have a flashing light, some have a pillow shaker to wake you up at night
Photo of Farley, a very photogenic ginger spaniel, he is lying on the floor and looking at the camera like butter wouldn't melt
This is Farley, my hearing dog. He wakes me up in the morning, lets me know if the smoke alarm goes off, and when people are ringing the doorbell - unless he's tired, then people can stay outside.
Congratulations!