Sandwich Generation: Assess Strengths and Support

As a member of the Sandwich Generation, you have so much experience managing the challenges of parents growing older and children growing up. Yet when facing the loss of a loved one, do you know what to do to care for yourself?

Take control of what is within your reach. Joannie had the drive to win for her mom. She kept herself emotionally insulated, and the fact that she is a superior athlete helped her succeed. You, too, can keep going, no matter how hard it is. Identify your strengths and make them work for you. And have the wisdom to know the difference between what you can manage and what you can't.

Relish the support that comes from those who care about you. Joannie's loss resonated for athletes and fans alike. And everyone in the Pacific Coliseum was cheering her on. She said that all the love and support made it easier to give her best. Recognize that family and friends want to see you succeed and will be there to help sustain you. You can also find comfort in your spiritual community, a therapist or a bereavement group. You do not have to do it alone - make the decision to ask for help whenever you need it.

How do you take care of yourself? Click on 'comments' below to share your thoughts and ideas -and log on tomorrow for more tips.

The Haitian Earthquake: Emotional Support and Personal Strength

If you're like so many Haitians and have recently suffered the death of a loved one, you can take control of what's within your reach. It may not be easy, but you have the wisdom to know the difference between what you can manage and what you can't. Try to get support from family, friends, your spiritual community, a therapist or a bereavement group. Make the decision to ask for help whenever you need it - you don't have to do it all alone.

Make a public commitment to those who want to see you do well. Tell others about your intentions and create a strong reality that will keep you motivated. Re-establish routine in your life, both at work and with family. As you set new long range goals and short term objectives, commit to a process of change - and then move forward, one small step at a time.

Primarily rely on your own instincts. Believe in what you’re doing to heal yourself. Maintain firm boundaries and talk honestly about how you're feeling. Realize your hidden internal strength as you trust yourself and look inside for answers. Emotional discomfort can become an opportunity - it serves as an invitation to grow.

Solitude itself provides a chance to emotionally revitalize. Rejuvenate your spirits with whatever works - listen to music that stirs your soul or curl up with a book that engages your fantasies. Learn to feel more positive through regular meditation or yoga practice. Every night, before you go to bed, write affirmations about what is still good in your life. And log on again tomorrow for more tips that can help you begin to heal after loss.