Aligning what we know with what we do
I know I should take care of myself.
Aligning what we know with what we do isn’t always easy
Bridging the gap for caregivers
"I know I should take care of myself but…"
If you’ve ever had this thought, you’re not alone.
As caregivers, we often live in a state of contradiction; fully aware that self-care is necessary, yet struggling to prioritize it.
We know giving too much without refilling our own cup leads to burnout, but somehow, we continue pouring.
Aligning what we know with what we do isn’t always easy.
But understanding why this gap exists, and how to bridge it, can be a game-changer.
Why Knowing Isn’t Always Doing
We’ve all heard the reminders:
Put your oxygen mask on first.
You can’t pour from an empty cup.
Self-care isn’t selfish.
These truths make perfect sense.
But when we’re in the thick of caregiving,
responding to immediate needs,
juggling responsibilities,
and putting others first,
⬗ intention doesn’t always translate into action
So why does this happen?
I see me all over this…
⟡We default to automatic "giver mode."
Many caregivers are naturally compassionate and selfless. The instinct to give is deeply ingrained.
Over time, this reflex can override logic, making it hard to pause and prioritize ourselves.
⟡We underestimate our own needs.
“I’m fine” becomes a habit, even when we’re not.
The signs of burnout creep in slowly, making it easy to dismiss exhaustion as just part of the job.
⟡Guilt gets in the way.
Many caregivers struggle with feeling guilty about taking time for themselves.
We tell ourselves, “They need me more than I need rest.”
⟡We lack structure and support.
Without a plan or accountability, self-care often falls to the bottom of the list.
When we’re surrounded by others who don’t prioritize themselves, it reinforces the cycle.
The good news? We can shift this.
And it starts by closing the gap between what we know and what we do.
So How Do We Get to the Doing?
As caregivers, we deserve the same level of care we give to others.
Here’s how you can start aligning knowledge with action:
1. Strengthen Your “Why”
Knowledge is power; but understanding why self-care matters can fuel motivation.
◽️Ask yourself: What happens when I run on empty? How does it impact my loved ones?
Reframe self-care as a necessity, not a luxury. It’s not just for you—it makes you a better caregiver.
2. Surround Yourself with Like-Minded Support
Caregiving is isolating when you feel like no one else gets it. Find people who do.
◽️Join a community of caregivers who prioritize balance.
◽️Talk to someone who reinforces the importance of self-care.
When you see others taking small steps, it reinforces that you can too.
3. Keep Priorities Practical & Realistic
Perfection isn’t the goal—progress is.
◽️Instead of "I need a full day off," start with "I will take 10 minutes for myself today."
◽️Instead of "I must have a perfect self-care routine," try "What’s one small thing I can do for myself today?”
4. Have a System for Accountability
Change happens when there’s structure.
◽️Schedule self-care. Put it on your calendar like any other commitment.
◽️Get an accountability partner. Check in with a friend or a DAWN support group.
◽️Use reminders. Sticky notes, phone alerts—whatever works to keep self-care top of mind.
Moving Forward: Aligning Knowledge with Action
The path from knowing to doing isn’t about drastic changes. It’s about small, intentional steps.
⟢Start here:
✓Acknowledge where you are today—without guilt.
✓Choose one small action you can take this week.
✓Stay connected with a community that reminds you why this matters.
You are worthy of the same care you give. Now, let’s start doing. 💛
Would you like to explore practical strategies for self-care that actually fit your life?