Embracing Your Best: Navigating Daily Struggles
There are days when I feel like I’m on top of my game. I knock out my list of things to-do, I write, I cook, I take care of my mom and still have a little bit of energy left for myself.
But then there are days when my best looks like just getting out of bed and managing not to scream the moment I wake up.
I’ve realized that my best isn’t something fixed—it shifts constantly. I’m always navigating fluctuating energy, mood swings, emotional reactivity, and never-ending responsibilities. And to be honest, I carry a lot of anger.
It’s not full-blown rage, but it’s frustration that builds up fast. I get angry at slow drivers, disorganized systems, and people who lack basic common sense. I get irritated easily, and sometimes it feels like the world is intentionally testing my patience.
When I’m in that mental headspace, calming down feels impossible. I can’t just “take a deep breath” or “think positive.” My brain doesn’t work that way.
But even on the days I feel like I’m failing, I’m learning I’m not. Sometimes, my best is staying in the moment. Letting off some steam. Drinking water. Breathing through it. It might not seem like much—but it counts.
Caregiving takes sacrifice to a whole new level. Most days, I’m running on fumes—errands, appointments, cleaning, cooking. I t’s exhausting. But there’s love woven into the chaos. I smile through the hard parts because I know I’m helping someone I love. That matters.
I used to define success by how productive I was. Now, I define it by how resilient I am. If I can brush my teeth, hold back a sharp word, or simply keep going—that’s enough. Even if it doesn’t look impressive. It’s still valid.
So, if you’re struggling to calm down, and people don’t get it—please know it’s okay. Your struggle is real. And just getting through the moment? That’s a win.
“Have you ever been so frustrated or overwhelmed that someone tells you to ‘just calm down’… and it makes everything worse?”
“Sometimes, doing your best is simply showing up and breathing through the moment.”
Unknown
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2 Comments
lifeinthethe8tre
Caregiving is such a challenge and it sounds like you are meeting it with grace. Be kind to yourself
Sara Flower
Telling someone to calm down when they are freaking out is one of the worst things you can do. Sometimes it takes a calm word or positive word to help. Other times, a “hey, you ok?” rather than “Calm down.” It’s like telling someone to get up when they physically can’t.
Thanks for sharing!