Special Resolutions
Christmas has come. We’ve opened the gifts, picked up all the strewn paper and bows that littered the floor, put away the leftovers in a refrigerator that simply can’t handle anymore, took our naps in order to recuperate from eating too much and too little sleep. Now it’s time to think about next year, 2023. These kinds of thoughts begin the train moving down the tracks of New Year’s resolutions.
Most everyone creates them, even if they aren’t written down. Even today I was thinking I needed to really think about eating more sensibly and nutritiously, especially given all the wonderful junk food I’ve enjoyed over the last few days. I’m not usually horribly concerned about calories, but as age seems to help dictate how calories are distributed, I have to give it some serious thought!
Along with eating better, I’d like to create a sustainable plan for the “business side” of writing, as well as, the 163 other things I seem to be obligated to! The feeling of “overwhelmed” just doesn’t work for me. Time to make changes!
Changes can be hard…..and even harder for the families with special needs children. But’s it’s no less important. When making goals it’s important to write down a plan for success. When we can see our ambitions and targets in print it helps cement our focus to keep us moving toward our plan. This process is even more important for the special needs child because not only can he see the objective, but it allows the family to come behind him for support and encouragement.
Having intentions clearly defined also allows for opportunities of praise on all fronts and this is extremely important for the special needs child. It also grants openings for reassessing and re-setting goals, if that is necessary. Sometimes health issues, travel, financial or other events cause our goals to be turned upside down. We need to know it’s okay to start over. There is no shame in that; in fact it’s completely right to re-evaluate, because stopping or giving up should not be an option!
While making New Year’s resolutions is something most everyone does, including helping special needs children to create goals they can focus on. Special needs parents also, should seriously consider their needs and resolutions, specifically to them.
Special Needs parents are special people! It requires 24/7 dedication, determination and selflessness. Their tireless efforts can leave them breathless with fatigue, even as their hearts are filled with love and satisfaction with every little success.
Remember to take time for yourselves and your spouse, even as you juggle all the financial and medical issues which abound. It’s important to remember to evaluate and revise all the legal aspects of your circumstances, therapies and therapists, and be certain that all paperwork is in order and updated.
Embrace new activities, allow quiet time with books or a good movie, have a date night, remove yourself from all the drama online and do something spontaneous and rejuvenating for yourself and as a couple. Arrange time for adequate sleep, find a support group, and make no apologies for the events in your life or for your very special child.
As part of your unique family, each member brings qualities like trust, love, appreciation, and understanding even if at different levels. The differences of all involved within this framework will remain strong as you laugh, eat, drink, sing, attend events, and grow together. Still change is inevitable. Embrace it, make resolutions and then make new ones when necessary, both for you and your family.
Happy New Year’s Everyone!
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