Maintaining health takes time for us. What I call “survival tasks” take much time each week, each day. You know… medication schedules, cleaning, cooking, various therapy exercises, shopping or even ordering groceries, and medical appointments… all those survival tasks. All of those things take us longer since we move more slowly or have to rest more frequently. Whew!

So, how do we do it? I don’t know. I am still working to balance it all. One thing that makes it more challenging for us is that our strength is variable. We can’t count on it.

I would love to hear how you balance things. This seems to be a constant battle.

Here are a few ideas that we have likely shared before:

• Do the next thing, do one more thing (to your ability).
• Break up tasks. I used to think that I had to “clean the bathroom.” Now, I “clean the sink,” then another time, clean the floor, etc.
• Rest when needed. Often, we move better and accomplish more after rest. Listen to your body.
• Prioritize and adjust expectations and tasks accordingly.
• Communicate with those you need to whether it is seeking assistance with tasks or talking to your medical providers. (Yesterday, I had to ask the speech therapist if we could adjust appointments as I simply couldn’t keep up. The therapy and exercises are helping, but even though I am working hard to get the exercises done, I am struggling. She was happy to work with me on it; a solution was found. I am thankful.) Sometimes, the solutions are easier than what we think they will be.

It is easy to fall into the trap of feeling as if “normal” people are able to accomplish it all. It is easy to think we are the only ones. What I learned in a chat with a coworker is that “normal” people feel as if they can’t accomplish everything they need to either. It is comforting to realize we are not on our own.

Most importantly, pray! Ask God for help and wisdom.

Truly, this is a daily subject. We would love to hear your tips and what helps you!