The happy caregiver–is that an oxymoron? Not at all. Yes, caregiving is inherently stressful, but it also has many rewards. A recent study featured on Good Morning America shows that having a positive attitude actually adds years to your life–not to mention its impact on the quality of life from everything from fighting depression to boosting your immune system.  

You may not consider yourself a happy caregiver–not every moment of every day, but it’s not too late to change your ‘tude, or realize you actually have more going for you than you realize. Happy isn’t birthday party giddy. Sometimes happy is about a deep sense of knowing you’re in the right place at the right time–doing the right thing.

The Happy Caregiver:

• Is caregiving because they want to
• Knows they’re needed
• Keeps it in balance
• Has other things going on–friendships, activities, learning
• Knows that caregiving won’t last forever
• Laughs off stress
• Sometimes yells, sometimes slams doors a bit too hard
• Asks forgiveness
• Sees themselves as a part of a tribe
• Asks for help
• Doesn’t fall for bullying or manipulation
• Does what’s best–for everyone
• Keeps the bigger picture in mind
• Doesn’t even begin to do it all 
• Can tell a good joke
• And give a good toast
• Appreciates the moments of surprize and insight that pop up at the most unusual times
• Accepts imperfection in herself and others (her is just a place holder–guys care-give, too)
• Keeps short range and longe range plans and goals in mind
• Stands up for what’s right
• Curses–occasionally
• Knows they’re an advocate, a voice when their care buddy needs them
• Occasionally exhausts all their resources–physically, emotionally, and spirituallly
• And knows those resevoirs have to be refilled
• Has a deep sense of faith and hope
• Accepts that no one gets out of this world–alive
• Faces their fear–not because they’re uber brave or crazy-strong–but because it’s the only way
• When the time comes, they embrace the sweetness and quietness of a good death
• Gives into grief 
• Relies on friends and family for strength
• Counts blessings
• Sees life in its many seasons
• Sees life as precious, precarious, and profound  
• Reinvents herself/himself again and again and again

Maybe you don’t feel bubbly right now–but I bet you see yourself in a few of the lines above. Caregivers are pretty amazing–and the more you choose to view what you do with a sense of honor and integrity and knowing that every day you make a difference, the more you’ll realize you just might be…a happy caregiver.