The Sandwich Generation: Welcome to the club! Plus my best tips for how to make it easier
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A few months ago, my mom made a comment to me while we were discussing the number of things I had on my to do list. She said, “You are stuck right in that sandwich generation, unfortunately.” To which I responded, “What are you talking about? Are you saying that millennials love sandwiches? Cause we totally do.” She laughed off my comment, agreed, and went on to tell me about the term Sandwich Generation – which is basically defined by: middle-aged adults who are simultaneously caring for their children and their aging parents (Thanks Google!)
If that definition sounded familiar, welcome to the club! Being stuck in the sandwich generation during your lifetime comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards. Balancing the demands of raising children while also caring for aging parents can feel overwhelming at times. This dual responsibility can be emotionally and physically taxing, but it also brings a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose. As a young mom, I often find myself juggling school runs, playdates, homework and doctor’s appointments and ensuring my parents’ well-being.
Is there a solution to make all this easier? Not really. But I am here today to give you some ideas as to how to get through these years as smoothly as possible.
Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or support groups. Sharing your experiences and challenges can provide emotional relief and practical advice. Chances are, most of your friends are going through the same thing as you and sometimes it eases stress to just chat about it with someone familiar.
Stay Organized: Use tools like planners, apps, or calendars to keep track of appointments, tasks, and deadlines. Staying organized can help you feel more in control. I keep it old school with the larger sticky notes. One to-do list for the week and then break that down every morning into things I need to do that day.
Communicate Openly: Keep the lines of communication open with your family. Discussing your needs and concerns can help prevent misunderstandings and foster a supportive environment.
Prioritize and Delegate: Identify the most critical tasks and focus on those first. Don’t hesitate to delegate responsibilities to other family members or seek professional help when needed.
Set Boundaries: Clearly define your work and personal time. This helps prevent burnout and ensures you have time to recharge.
Practice Self-Care: Make time for activities that rejuvenate you, whether it’s exercise, reading, or spending time with friends. Taking care of yourself is essential to being able to care for others.
As someone who is also navigating these waters, I am well-equipped to assist you in finding the right solutions for your family. Whether you’re looking to buy a new home that accommodates your growing family or helping your parents downsize to a more manageable space, I am here to guide you every step of the way. My journey as a real estate agent is deeply intertwined with my personal experiences. Having older parents has given me a unique perspective on the challenges and needs of families like ours. I understand the emotional and logistical complexities involved in helping parents downsize or transition to a new living situation and this has allowed me to better connect with my clients on a deeper level.
Being a young parent in the sandwich generation is no easy feat, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. As a real estate agent who understands the unique challenges you face, I am here to help you and your parents find the perfect living solutions. Together, we can create a future where everyone feels supported, comfortable, and at home.
Feel free to reach out to me for a consultation or just to chat about your needs. Let’s make this journey a positive and empowering experience for your entire family.
