Author: Leni Alston

In my career, I’ve come to realize that professional success isn’t just about numbers, contracts, or meetings—it’s about people. And often, the things that make the biggest difference aren’t grand gestures or flashy achievements. They’re the small acts of kindness that show someone you care, that you’re present, and that you respect the work and lives of others.

Whether it’s in healthcare marketing, patient placement, or just everyday interactions with colleagues and families, these small actions ripple out in ways you might never see—but their impact is undeniable.

Kindness Builds Trust

In my work, trust is everything. Families are often stressed, worried, and navigating complex decisions about care. Providers are juggling schedules, regulations, and patient needs. In these moments, a small act of kindness can communicate more than words ever could.

Sometimes it’s as simple as remembering a family member’s name or following up on a question they asked last week. Other times, it’s taking a moment to check in with a colleague who’s had a difficult day. These gestures may seem small, but they build credibility and trust over time. People notice when you genuinely care, and that trust often becomes the foundation for long-term relationships.

Acts of Kindness Are Contagious

I’ve also seen how kindness spreads. When I make an effort to support someone—whether it’s a small thank-you note, a helpful tip, or offering a hand in a busy moment—it inspires others to do the same.

For example, I often prepare meals or deliver small donations to independent living facilities that reach out for support. Initially, it might just feel like a practical way to help. But over time, staff and other volunteers begin to mirror that attitude. The energy shifts from transactional to relational. People start thinking, “How can I make someone else’s day better?” and that ripple effect strengthens the entire community.

Small Gestures Make People Feel Seen

One of the most important things I’ve learned is that small gestures make people feel valued and recognized. In high-stress environments, it’s easy for people to feel overlooked or taken for granted. A thoughtful email, a brief phone call, or even a kind word can make someone feel seen in a way that lasts far beyond that moment.

I remember a family who was struggling to navigate placement options for a loved one. After a long, stressful conversation, I sent them a short note just to say, “I’m thinking of you, and I’m here if you need anything.” A few days later, they told me that note had meant more than anything else during the process. That small act of kindness helped them feel supported and reassured.

Kindness Doesn’t Take Much Time

Many people avoid small acts of kindness because they think they require extra effort. In reality, these gestures are often quick and simple—but their effects are profound.

Holding a door open, offering to share a resource, or simply listening with full attention can take seconds, but those seconds can change someone’s day. Over time, these small gestures accumulate, creating an environment of respect, empathy, and collaboration.

Kindness Improves Professional Relationships

I’ve noticed that kindness directly strengthens professional relationships. When people feel respected and supported, they’re more willing to collaborate, communicate openly, and go the extra mile.

In my role, I’ve worked with providers, families, and colleagues who initially were hesitant or cautious. Over time, consistent acts of kindness—checking in, offering guidance, or acknowledging their efforts—helped break down barriers. Today, those relationships are stronger than ever, and we work together more efficiently and effectively because trust and goodwill are already in place.

Kindness Inspires Reflection and Growth

Interestingly, being kind also benefits the person giving it. Acts of kindness create a sense of fulfillment, purpose, and reflection. They remind me why I chose this line of work: to serve, support, and positively impact people’s lives.

When I pause to help someone, even in a small way, it keeps me grounded and empathetic. It reminds me that success isn’t just about outcomes—it’s about the human connections you build along the way.

Incorporating Kindness Into Daily Life

For me, integrating kindness into professional life isn’t complicated. I try to:

• Listen fully before responding, giving people my full attention.
  
• Acknowledge effort by thanking someone for their time or work.
  
• Offer help even if it’s a small task or suggestion.
  
• Check in on people after meetings or challenging situations.
  

These small acts become part of the culture I want to foster—one where people feel valued, supported, and respected.

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The power of small acts of kindness is often underestimated. They don’t require grand gestures or huge resources, but they have a profound effect on relationships, trust, and morale. In professional life, especially in fields like healthcare where stress and stakes are high, kindness can be the difference between a challenging experience and a supportive one.

For me, kindness is not just an approach—it’s a philosophy. Every small gesture matters. Every word, every follow-up, every thoughtful action ripples outward, creating trust, connection, and impact that lasts far beyond the moment.

If I’ve learned anything in my career, it’s this: success isn’t measured solely by metrics or outcomes. It’s measured by how people feel after they interact with you. By choosing to act with kindness, even in small ways, we can create workplaces and communities that are not only more effective, but more human.

Working in healthcare marketing and patient placement is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be demanding and emotionally intense. Every day, I’m supporting families through stressful situations, coordinating with providers, and making sure each patient’s needs are met with care and attention. While helping others is deeply fulfilling, I quickly learned that I can’t pour from an empty cup. Balancing my personal wellbeing with a demanding career isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential.

Over the years, I’ve discovered practical ways to care for myself, maintain focus, and sustain the energy needed to serve others with integrity and compassion. Here’s what that journey has taught me.

Understanding the Importance of Self-Care

Early in my career, I thought working harder and longer hours was the key to success. I wanted to make a difference for every family, every patient, and every provider I worked with. But I began to notice something important: when I ignored my own needs, I wasn’t performing at my best.

Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s a foundation for effectiveness. If I’m tired, stressed, or burned out, I can’t provide the level of attention and empathy that families deserve. Over time, I learned that taking care of myself is actually a professional responsibility. It allows me to show up fully, stay focused, and make thoughtful decisions.

Setting Boundaries Without Guilt

One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that it’s okay to set boundaries. In a field where people rely on you, saying “no” or “not right now” can feel uncomfortable. But boundaries are what keep me grounded.

I’ve found ways to set clear working hours, prioritize tasks, and communicate availability to colleagues and families. This doesn’t mean I stop caring—it means I care sustainably. By defining my limits, I protect my energy and ensure that when I am present, I’m fully present.

Finding Small Moments of Renewal

Balancing a demanding career doesn’t mean waiting for long breaks or vacations—it’s about finding small moments throughout the day to recharge.

For me, cooking is one of those moments. Preparing a meal allows me to slow down, focus on something creative, and leave work behind for a short while. Even five minutes of mindful breathing, a short walk, or a quick chat with a friend can help reset my energy. These small practices accumulate, keeping me steady and resilient over the long term.

Prioritizing Physical Health

Physical wellbeing is closely linked to mental and emotional health. I make it a point to move my body regularly, eat nourishing meals, and get enough rest. These habits help me stay alert, reduce stress, and maintain the stamina needed for a demanding career.

It’s easy to let exercise, sleep, or meals slide when deadlines pile up, but I’ve found that investing in my health pays off exponentially. When I feel physically strong, I can handle challenges more calmly and make better decisions for the families I serve.

Emotional and Spiritual Care

In addition to physical self-care, I also prioritize emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Working closely with families during stressful times can be emotionally taxing. To stay balanced, I take time to reflect, pray, or simply process my experiences.

Talking with trusted friends, mentors, or colleagues also helps me maintain perspective. Having a support system allows me to share challenges, celebrate successes, and gain insight from others’ experiences. Emotional care isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for maintaining compassion and empathy in a high-demand field.

Staying Organized to Reduce Stress

Part of maintaining balance is managing the workload effectively. I rely on simple organizational systems—calendars, to-do lists, and notes—to stay on top of tasks and deadlines. Knowing what’s coming next reduces anxiety and frees mental space to focus on the people I’m serving.

Organization also allows me to plan breaks and self-care moments into my day. By being proactive, I prevent feeling overwhelmed and ensure that personal wellbeing isn’t sacrificed for professional responsibilities.

The Ripple Effect of Balance

When I take care of myself, it doesn’t just benefit me—it benefits everyone I interact with. Families feel more supported because I’m focused and attentive. Colleagues appreciate my reliability and composure. Patients receive better guidance and care because I can think clearly and respond thoughtfully.

Balance creates a ripple effect. When I model self-care and boundaries, it encourages others in the workplace to do the same. It fosters a healthier, more sustainable professional environment for everyone involved.

Balancing personal wellbeing with a demanding career is a continuous journey, not a one-time achievement. It requires mindfulness, discipline, and the willingness to prioritize myself alongside my professional responsibilities.

Through setting boundaries, finding small moments of renewal, prioritizing physical and emotional health, and staying organized, I’ve learned that I can care deeply for others without neglecting myself. In fact, caring for myself makes me a more effective, compassionate, and trustworthy professional.

At the end of the day, balance isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving. By taking care of my wellbeing, I ensure that I can continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of the families and patients I serve.

In my line of work, I’ve had the honor of meeting hundreds of families from all walks of life. Some are overwhelmed. Some are hopeful. Many are exhausted. And most are just trying to do the right thing for someone they love.

While my job is technically to help with healthcare placements and resources, the truth is—I learn just as much from the families I serve as they do from me. Over time, their stories, strength, and vulnerability have shaped how I work, how I communicate, and how I see the world.

Here are just a few of the lessons they’ve taught me.

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Every Family Is Doing Their Best

It’s easy to look at someone’s situation from the outside and assume they should be doing things differently. But once you sit down with them, hear their story, and understand the emotions and pressures they’re carrying, your perspective changes.

I’ve worked with families who’ve spent years caring for a loved one at home before finally reaching out for help. I’ve seen adult children juggling work, their own kids, and caregiving—all while carrying guilt for not being able to do more.

What I’ve learned is that most people are doing the absolute best they can with the resources and information they have. My job isn’t to judge or “fix” them. My job is to support them, guide them gently, and remind them that it’s okay to ask for help.

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Listening Is More Important Than Talking

When I first started in this field, I thought I needed to have all the answers right away. I quickly learned that what families need first isn’t a solution—they need someone to truly listen.

Some families are in crisis. Some are grieving. Others just feel stuck. In those moments, what makes the biggest difference is giving them space to share. Not rushing them. Not filling every silence with advice. Just being present and letting them feel heard.

Over time, I’ve found that once people feel understood, they’re much more open to guidance. But it starts with listening—not lecturing.

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Vulnerability Is a Strength

There’s something incredibly humbling about watching people open up during one of the most difficult moments in their lives.

I’ve seen sons cry over having to place their mother in care. I’ve seen spouses cling to the hope that they’re making the right choice. I’ve had countless conversations where people admit they feel like they’re failing—even when they’re clearly doing everything they can.

What I’ve come to admire deeply is the strength in their vulnerability. It takes courage to say, “I don’t know what to do.” It takes strength to trust a stranger with something as personal as a loved one’s wellbeing.

That trust is sacred to me, and it’s one of the biggest reasons I strive to lead with compassion in everything I do.

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The Details Matter

I’ve learned that the smallest details can make the biggest difference. Families don’t just want a facility with availability—they want a place that feels right.

Maybe it’s a quiet room near a window. Maybe it’s a Filipino caregiver who can cook the food their mom grew up eating. Maybe it’s a place close enough so the grandchildren can visit often.

These aren’t just “extras”—they’re often what makes the placement feel like a true fit. Families have taught me to slow down, ask thoughtful questions, and dig deeper into what really matters.

It’s not just about finding a home. It’s about finding the right home.

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Grace Makes the Process Easier for Everyone

One thing that always touches me is when families extend grace—not just to me, but to themselves, to care providers, and to each other.

Sometimes things don’t go perfectly. A placement might need to be adjusted. Communication may take a little longer than expected. Emotions can run high.

But in those moments, the families who choose to stay kind, patient, and flexible remind me that we’re all human. They show me that grace doesn’t mean ignoring problems—it means choosing to move through challenges with respect and understanding.

That kind of energy is contagious, and it always makes the process more peaceful and productive.

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People Remember How You Made Them Feel

At the end of the day, the most lasting thing I can offer a family is a feeling of being cared for.

Yes, I want to help them find a great match. Yes, I want the process to be smooth. But more than anything, I want them to walk away feeling like they were seen, supported, and not alone.

So many families have told me, “I felt like I could breathe again after we spoke.” Or, “Thank you for treating us like people, not a case.”

Those are the moments that stay with me. They remind me why I do what I do—and why I always aim to lead with heart.

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Final Thoughts

Working with families in this space has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Every story has taught me something new. Every conversation has deepened my empathy.

I’ve learned that even in the hardest situations, love is what drives people. And when love leads the way, there’s always room for connection, healing, and hope.

So to all the families I’ve had the honor to serve: thank you. Thank you for your honesty, your resilience, and your trust. You’ve made me a better listener, a better professional, and a better human being.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my years working in healthcare placement and community outreach, it’s that the real work often begins after the first conversation.

Anyone can introduce themselves and make a good impression once—but the true test of commitment, care, and professionalism lies in what happens next. The follow-up. The check-in. The second, third, and even tenth phone call.

In this field, we’re not just building a list of contacts—we’re building relationships that are based on trust, consistency, and reliability. And that takes intention, effort, and heart.

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First Conversations Open the Door—but That’s Just the Start

When I meet a new family, facility manager, or referral partner, I always remind myself: this is just the beginning. First impressions are important, of course, but they’re only a small piece of the puzzle.

People want to know that they’re not just another number or name in a notebook. They want to feel seen and remembered. That’s where the follow-up becomes powerful—it shows that you care enough to continue the conversation and build something lasting.

Sometimes a family isn’t ready to make a decision right away. Sometimes a facility doesn’t have the availability today but might next month. If I don’t stay connected, I lose that opportunity—not just to help, but to serve with intention.

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Be Genuine, Not Just “Checking the Box”

There’s a big difference between checking in because you want to and checking in because you feel like you have to. People can tell. I’ve learned that sincerity goes a long way. When I follow up with someone, I try to make it personal, not just professional.

That could mean asking how their mom is doing since our last conversation, remembering a detail they shared about their caregiving struggles, or simply sending a thoughtful message with no agenda other than saying, “I’m here if you need anything.”

Those small touches are what turn business relationships into meaningful connections. And in healthcare, where emotions run high and trust is fragile, that matters more than anything.

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Use Simple Systems to Stay Consistent

I won’t lie—keeping up with follow-ups can get overwhelming, especially when juggling multiple placements, conversations, and facility relationships. That’s why I use a very simple system to stay organized.

Sometimes it’s just a notebook. Other times it’s a calendar reminder, a color-coded spreadsheet, or a quick note app on my phone. The key is not overcomplicating it. I write down who I spoke to, what we discussed, and when I want to reach out again. And then—I actually do it.

Following up isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present. The goal isn’t to remember every detail—it’s to show up when it counts.

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Following Up Builds Trust Over Time

Trust doesn’t happen overnight. It’s built slowly, through consistency and care. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is when a family refers someone else to me—not because I gave them a fancy presentation, but because I followed through and supported them when they needed it most.

People remember how you made them feel. And a thoughtful follow-up can make someone feel supported, respected, and valued.

The same goes for my relationships with facilities. I’ve worked with some independent living locations that initially were hesitant to partner with me. But after regular check-ins, small gestures of support (like a meal drop-off or a friendly call), they started to see me not just as a service provider, but as someone they could trust to do right by their residents.

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It’s Okay if You Don’t Hear Back Right Away

Not every follow-up will get a response. And that’s okay. Sometimes people are overwhelmed. Sometimes the timing just isn’t right. The important thing is that you continue showing up with kindness, not pressure.

I’ve had families reach out months after our first talk. They’ll say, “I remember you checked in and just wanted to see how we were doing. That meant a lot.”

Those are the moments that remind me that no effort is wasted. Even a message that goes unanswered might plant the seed for a future connection.

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Make It Part of Who You Are

For me, following up isn’t a strategy—it’s part of how I show people I care. Whether it’s a quick email, a handwritten card, or a short call, it’s my way of saying, “I see you, and I haven’t forgotten you.”

It’s easy in our fast-paced world to move on quickly from one task to the next. But relationships need time, attention, and a little bit of nurturing. And honestly? That’s where the joy is.

There’s something deeply fulfilling about reconnecting with someone you helped months ago, hearing that they’re doing well, or learning that your support made their journey just a little easier.

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Final Thoughts

In a world full of distractions, the follow-up is a quiet way of saying, “I care enough to come back.” It’s one of the most underrated yet powerful ways to build meaningful, long-term relationships in both business and life.

For me, it’s not just a professional habit—it’s a personal value. Because the people we serve deserve more than just a one-time conversation. They deserve someone who will walk alongside them, every step of the way.

So my advice? Don’t underestimate the follow-up. It might just be the thing that turns a brief introduction into a trusted partnership—or even a lifelong connection.

People often ask me where I find the energy to keep doing what I do—working with families, navigating healthcare systems, building relationships, and handling the emotional weight that comes with helping people during vulnerable times. The truth is, I don’t always have the answers, and there are definitely hard days. But what keeps me going, what keeps me grounded, is something very simple: volunteering.

Giving back to others—especially through cooking and sharing food, clothes, or just a kind presence—has always been more than a good deed to me. It’s part of who I am. It keeps me connected to why I do this work in the first place.

It Started with a Pot of Food

Some of my most meaningful volunteer experiences haven’t been part of a big program or organization. They started with a phone call or a quiet request—someone from an independent living facility asking for help with groceries or a warm meal.

I didn’t hesitate. I just started cooking.

I’ve always loved being in the kitchen. It reminds me of home, of community, of care. So preparing food and delivering it to those in need felt natural to me. It wasn’t just about filling a belly—it was about showing people that someone saw them, that someone cared. Over time, these small acts became part of my routine.

A Two-Way Street

People often think that when you volunteer, you’re the one doing the giving. But I’ve found that it’s really a two-way street. Yes, I’m providing food or clothing or support—but I’m also receiving something just as powerful in return.

I’ve gained perspective, gratitude, and a deeper connection to the community around me. I’ve learned how resilient people are, even when they’re facing tough circumstances. I’ve heard stories that moved me to tears and reminded me why compassion matters so much.

These moments ground me. They remind me that while I work in the healthcare marketing world, my purpose goes beyond logistics and placements. It’s about humanity.

Volunteering Strengthens My Work

You might think volunteering is separate from my professional life, but the two are actually deeply connected. When I’m out in the community—especially working directly with those who live in independent housing or have limited resources—I gain insight that no meeting or marketing strategy can provide.

I see what people really need. I learn what’s missing in the system. I understand how communication and compassion can bridge gaps that paperwork never could.

That knowledge makes me better at my job. It helps me speak more thoughtfully to families and care providers. It helps me advocate more clearly. And it keeps my heart in the right place.

Staying Humble, Staying Human

Let’s be honest—this field can sometimes become numbers-focused. How many clients? How many placements? How much revenue?

That’s not why I do this.

Volunteering brings me back to the human side of what I do. It reminds me that every person I help is someone’s mother, brother, father, or friend. They’re not just a referral or a case file. They’re real people, with real needs, real fears, and real hopes.

I never want to lose that perspective. Volunteering keeps me humble. It keeps me real.

It’s Also About My Roots

Growing up in the Philippines, I was taught to help others however I could. Community care wasn’t optional—it was part of everyday life. We shared meals. We looked out for one another. That culture of kindness stuck with me.

Now, living in Las Vegas, I try to carry that same spirit. Whether it’s delivering food or just sitting down and talking to someone who’s feeling alone, I see every act of service as a way to honor where I came from—and to pass that kindness on.

It Doesn’t Have to Be Big

People sometimes tell me they wish they could volunteer but don’t have time. I understand that. Life is busy, and not everyone can commit hours each week. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to do something big to make a big difference.

Bringing a meal to one person. Donating a few extra items from your grocery run. Making a phone call to check in on someone. These little actions matter. They add up.

And the more you do them, the more you realize that giving isn’t a task—it’s a mindset. It’s about staying open, staying kind, and being present when someone needs you.

Purpose Isn’t Always Found in a Paycheck

At the end of the day, I love the work I do. Helping families navigate healthcare, making meaningful connections, and supporting care providers is fulfilling in so many ways.

But the part that fills me up the most—the part that reminds me who I am and why I do this—is what happens outside of business hours. It’s in the meals shared, the hugs exchanged, and the quiet thank-yous from someone who just needed a little help.

Volunteering doesn’t take away from my work—it fuels it. It centers me. It softens me. It keeps me focused on what really matters: serving others with integrity, compassion, and heart.

So if you’re ever feeling disconnected or overwhelmed, try giving a little bit of yourself to someone else. You might be surprised at how much it gives back to you.

Working in healthcare marketing—especially when it involves helping families through emotional, complicated decisions—is incredibly rewarding. But I won’t lie: it can also be overwhelming. Some days are long, some conversations are heavy, and some situations don’t have easy answers. That’s the nature of this work. It’s people-centered, heart-centered, and constantly changing.

Over the years, I’ve learned that to keep showing up fully for others, I have to take care of myself too. It’s not selfish—it’s necessary. Staying grounded is what allows me to keep going, even on the hard days. And it’s something I’ve had to be intentional about.

If you’re in a field like this—or even just juggling a lot in life—maybe some of what works for me will speak to you, too.

Starting with Purpose

For me, everything starts with remembering why I do what I do. When things get stressful, I take a step back and think about the families I’ve helped—the look on a daughter’s face when she knows her mom is in safe hands, or the sigh of relief from a caregiver who finally feels supported.

That sense of purpose keeps me grounded. It reminds me that even when I’m tired, what I’m doing matters. It’s easy to get caught up in daily tasks, but reconnecting with my “why” helps me push through with heart and focus.

Making Time for Quiet

In such a fast-paced industry, there’s always something calling for my attention—emails, phone calls, updates, follow-ups. It would be easy to stay in “go mode” from morning to night. But I’ve learned that if I don’t make time for quiet, my mind starts to spiral.

Every day, even if it’s just for 10 or 15 minutes, I create space to breathe. Sometimes it’s prayer. Sometimes it’s just sitting in silence. Other times, I journal out my thoughts. That quiet time helps me reset, clear my head, and approach the rest of the day with more calm and clarity.

Leaning on My Faith

Faith has always been my anchor. When things feel out of control or when I’m unsure of what to do, I turn to prayer. It helps me feel less alone. I don’t have all the answers, but I believe I’m being guided—and that gives me peace in the chaos.

There are moments when I’ve faced really tough decisions or emotional situations with families, and I’ve had to pause, pray, and trust that I’ll be shown the next step. That quiet strength has gotten me through more days than I can count.

Having a Support System

I may work independently a lot, but I don’t do this work alone. I have people I trust—friends, family, mentors—who I can talk to when I need to decompress or just be real for a minute. Sometimes all it takes is a quick chat, a shared laugh, or someone saying, “You’re doing great. Keep going.”

Having that support reminds me that I don’t have to carry everything by myself. And it makes the hard days feel a little lighter.

Staying Organized to Stay Sane

Stress can come from uncertainty or feeling like everything is piling up. That’s why I keep things as organized as possible. I rely on simple systems—notes, calendars, and daily task lists—to stay on top of everything.

Knowing what I need to do and having a clear plan helps keep the overwhelm down. I might not get through every task perfectly, but having structure makes it all feel more manageable.

Doing Something Just for Me

It took me a while to learn this, but one of the best ways I manage stress is by making time for the things I enjoy—outside of work. For me, that’s cooking. There’s something so grounding about chopping ingredients, mixing flavors, and creating something nourishing with my hands. It slows me down and helps me reconnect with myself.

Whether I’m cooking for my own family or preparing meals to donate to a local independent living facility, it’s a way to give love and care in a different form. It fills me up, which helps me keep showing up for others.

Taking One Step at a Time

When things get overwhelming, I don’t try to solve everything at once. I focus on the next best step. Sometimes that means making one phone call, responding to one message, or checking in with one family. I remind myself that progress doesn’t always have to be fast—it just has to be steady.

I’ve also learned to be gentle with myself. I’m human. I won’t get everything right. But if I show up with integrity and heart, that’s enough.

It’s Okay to Pause

In this line of work, it’s easy to feel like you have to keep pushing no matter what. But I’ve learned that rest isn’t a reward—it’s part of being responsible. If I don’t take care of myself, I can’t serve others the way they deserve.

Staying grounded isn’t about being perfect or always having it together. It’s about building habits and having tools that help you come back to center—especially when life gets noisy.

So to anyone feeling overwhelmed in their work or life: give yourself permission to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with what matters most. You’ll find your strength there.