Many people start work each morning with feelings of ambivalence and discontent when they start the day work. They’re unfulfilled and watching the clock all day, waiting for the workday to be over. They’re not connected with their work; to them, it’s just a job with a paycheck. Studies show that just about 85% of caregivers love their work. They enjoy feelings of deep satisfaction as they spend their hours making a difference in people’s lives. To a caregiver, it’s not a job – it’s a calling.
What Makes a Caregiver Career Rewarding?
Not every day is a bed of roses for a caregiver. They help clients with a variety of backgrounds, personalities, and needs. Every day is different, but each day has something in common – you help people stay safely and comfortably in their homes.
If you have compassion for others, caregiving can bring deep meaning to your life. At Senior1Care of South Bend, caregivers have been the heartbeat of our team serving Indiana for over 15 years. People matter to them, and it shows every day in how they help others and how they treat them.
Is the role of caregiver one that you feel called to fulfill? Here are 10 traits of caregivers that enjoy rewarding careers. See if some, or all, describe you.
They Have Compassion
Caregivers put people first and recognize that they’re showing compassion to another human being. They see every person as someone’s parent, sibling, spouse, child, and friend.
They See The Big Picture
Their day may sometimes be filled with mundane tasks, but they know the little things add up and make a difference in their clients’ lives.
They Practice Self-Care
Professional caregivers know they need to take care of themselves to be able to take care of others. They maintain their health physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially.
They’re Team Players
Caregivers recognize that there are family members and healthcare professionals who are also involved in their client’s well-being. Caregivers work together to support and complement the help that others are providing their clients.
They Connect With Other Caregivers
Caregivers connect with other caregivers to give and receive support and advice. They make connections with other caregivers at Senior1Care of South Bend or through caregiving networks like National Alliance for Caregiving or Caregiver Action Network.
The Practice The Golden Rule
Caregivers help themselves and their clients by always asking themselves, “Is this how I should be treated?” If they can answer “yes,” they’re doing great.
They Enjoy Their Work
Caregivers feel called to their work and simply enjoy doing it. They smile, share humor, swap stories, and listen well – all actions that are positive elements of showing compassion to their clients.
The Savor the Sweet Moments
Some days the challenges of caregiving can make one weary. Professional caregivers find the good in each day and hold onto the positive, meaningful parts of their work.
They Keep Learning
Continuing to be a student of the profession helps caregivers be more competent and effective in their role, making them better caregivers. They take advantage of training opportunities and strive to be the best caregiver they can be.
They Ask for Help
Caregiving is the most rewarding when someone feels equipped to do a great job. Professional caregivers reach out to their leaders when they feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of what to do.
Join Our Team
Senior1Care of South Bend will help you answer your calling to be a caregiver and give you all of the training and support you need to succeed in this wonderful career. Contact us today to learn more and take the next step towards professional fulfillment.
