Embracing Life's Lessons Through Caring for My 96-Year-Old Mother

I want to share a personal reflection on the invaluable lessons I've learned through the beautiful journey of caring for my incredible 96-year-old mother.

My mom, a true mover and shaker throughout her life, became a widow at 56 and left to raise three girls aged 14, 16, and 18. Despite adversities, she provided us with the best life imaginable. Fast forward to today, she lives independently with the support of a caregiver, and every other weekend, my sisters and I take turns caring for her.

Weekends with Mom are transformative. Despite her physical challenges, from the morning routine to assisting with daily activities, I've come to appreciate the art of slowing down—what we call "poc a poc" in Catalan. In these moments, I find my duty, as a profound connection and a chance to reciprocate the care she bestowed upon me throughout my life.

Our mornings are filled with intellectual activities. We delve into creative pursuits, drawing, cutting, and pasting, turning simple activities into cherished bonding moments.

After a morning nap, we share lunch and embark on a wheelchair stroll. Her ability to connect with strangers, eliciting smiles and positive reactions, reaffirms the impact of maintaining a positive outlook. Witnessing my mom, with limited mobility and the beginnings of dementia, embracing life with such gusto is inspiring.

Life, as we experience it together, is a cyclical journey—from morning naps to afternoon walks. The emphasis on small steps in achieving goals is a metaphor for personal growth and caregiving.

Caring for my mother has been a profound journey of self-discovery. It's a reminder to cherish the wisdom and experiences of our elders. The lessons I've learned—from the importance of slowing down to the resilience that comes with a positive attitude—have reshaped my perspective on life.

I invite everyone to genuinely connect with their elders, take the time for creative and quality moments, and discover the joy and wisdom that emanate from these genuine connections. It's a win-win situation that brings fulfillment, gratitude, and a deeper appreciation for the beautiful journey of life.

The wisdom gained from caring for our elders is not just a personal revelation; it's a professional asset that can transform our workplaces and projects. I would say even more, let’s transfer these lessons—infuse patience into our leadership, embrace perseverance in our projects, and find happiness in achieving collective goals.

These are the big ideas

1. Lifelong Learning:

My mother has instilled in me the value of being a lifelong learner. The key idea here is that curiosity and openness to intellectual activities are not confined by age. Continuous learning keeps us engaged, sharpens our minds, and enriches our lives. Embracing a mindset of lifelong learning ensures that growth is a constant in our personal and professional journey.

2. Self-Care and Self-Love:

The crucial lesson from my mother is that taking care of oneself, being presumido (taking pride in oneself), and genuinely liking who you are is paramount. The big idea is that self-care is not selfish; it's a prerequisite for a fulfilling life. When we invest in our well-being and embrace self-love, we become better equipped to navigate life's challenges and contribute positively to the world around us.

3. Perseverance and Resilience:

Despite the intense pain resulting from her years as a classical ballerina, my mother exemplifies unwavering perseverance. Resilience is a choice. It's about saying "go on" even in the face of adversity. This lesson teaches us that challenges are inevitable, but our response to them defines our character and our ability to overcome obstacles.

4. The Power of Giving:

The big idea is that investing in relationships, whether with family or friends and actively taking care of your people pays dividends. Just as she dedicated herself to preparing the best for her family in our professional lives, the importance of building solid connections and taking care of our teams is reciprocated manifold. Investing in people yields a network of support when needed the most.

In essence, these lessons from my mother are not just skills; they are foundational principles that shape a holistic and meaningful approach to life. They underscore the importance of continuous learning, self-care, resilience, and the profound impact of giving to others. These principles, rooted in her experiences, are guiding lights that illuminate my journey. #LifeLessons #SkillsLearned #LeadershipInspiration

#Mindfulness #ProfessionalDevelopment #LeadershipLessons #TeamBuilding

#LifeLessons #Eldercare #Gratitude #PositiveAttitude