Small Steps to Move Forward After Loss
The experience of losing a cherished person is profoundly difficult, and charting a course for your life in the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Moving onward doesn't mean leaving behind the memory of those you've lost. Here are some small steps to facilitate your journey of healing and help you discover a renewed sense of purpose after loss.
Photo: Siebe Warmoeskerken
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The following article was written by Kimberly Hayes. An author bio can be found at the end of this post.
The experience of losing a cherished person is profoundly difficult, and charting a course for your life in the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Moving onward doesn't mean leaving behind the memory of those you've lost. Here are some small steps to facilitate your journey of healing and help you discover a renewed sense of purpose after loss.
Give yourself space to mourn
Granting yourself the latitude to mourn is essential. Recognize that recovery is a lengthy journey and experiencing an array of emotions, from sorrow to frustration, is completely normal. Contrary to societal pressures to "move on," it’s crucial to give yourself time and space to grieve in a manner that is authentic to you.
Face your emotional reality
Suppressing your emotions may seem easier in the short term, but it can have long-term repercussions on your mental health. Research suggests that confronting your emotions head-on, allowing yourself to feel sadness, resentment, or bewilderment can facilitate a healthier, more holistic healing process.
Leverage your community network
During times of hardship, your friends and family can be an invaluable resource. Sharing your thoughts and emotions with them can significantly lighten your emotional load. Beyond that, your community can also provide different perspectives that might help you process your grief more thoroughly.
Craft a lasting tribute
Creating a lasting tribute for a departed loved one can offer a sense of closure and emotional relief. Options like dedicating a park bench, assembling a photo album, or hosting a memorial event can serve as enduring tokens of the joy and love that individual contributed to your life. These tangible commemorations act as perpetual reminders, helping you celebrate their life while finding peace on your own.
Create a personalized keepsake
Transforming the ashes of a departed loved one into a piece of jewelry offers a unique and tactile way to keep their memory close (EverDear is one company that offers this service). Some companies and artisans also offer the creation of blankets or stuffed animals from a loved one’s clothing. Personalized keepsakes can provide comfort and a constant reminder of the love you shared. For those interested in exploring this option, resources like everdear.co offer ideas and professional services to guide you through the process.
Bring in a furry confidant
Pets can offer emotional solace when human interaction feels too taxing. If you’re an animal lover, consider adopting a pet for emotional support. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or even a smaller animal like a guinea pig, a pet can fill your home with life and positive energy. You can find helpful pet care advice through books, websites, and pet care experts to ensure your new friend receives the best possible care. If taking on a pet full-time isn’t in the cards, many cities also offer volunteer opportunities at animal shelters.
Prioritize Holistic Wellness
Taking care of yourself may fall by the wayside during times of grief, yet it is precisely when self-care is most needed. Engage in activities that contribute to your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Whether it’s practicing mindfulness techniques, getting regular exercise, keeping a journal, or seeking counseling, self-care should be a non-negotiable part of your healing process.
Loss is one of the harshest trials in life, but the actionable steps outlined here can help guide you through the difficult terrain of grief toward deeper purpose and a renewed sense of self. Remember, each journey of recovery is as unique as the individual walking its path. You can use these tools to embark on your own journey at your own pace, while cherishing the memory of those who have passed on.
Kimberly Hayes enjoys writing about health and wellness and created Public Health Alert to help keep the public informed about the latest developments in popular health issues and concerns.
Sources: Cognitive Psychiatry of Chapel Hill, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Matthew Funeral Home, Pets Digest, The Birds World
Emptying a Loved One’s Home: What You Need to Know
The emotional toll of cleaning out the home of a recently passed family member or friend can be heavy, yet it is an essential part of moving forward.
Photo: Brian Wangenheim
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The following article was written by Kimberly Hayes. An author bio can be found at the end of this post.
The emotional toll of cleaning out the home of a recently passed family member or friend can be heavy, yet it is an essential part of moving forward. This guide offers you a set of strategies designed to assist you in making informed decisions and reducing stress during this challenging phase of your life. In this article, you’ll discover essential steps to help you tackle this monumental task successfully.
A Guide to Informed Choices
Your first task is to sift through the belongings and determine what to keep, what to give away, and what to discard. As you work through each room, evaluate the emotional and utilitarian significance of each item.
Strategies for Stress Alleviation
Undoubtedly, sorting through a lifetime’s worth of possessions can be stressful. If making a decision about something has you feeling stressed, taking a deep breath may help you better evaluate your choices. By taking your time and employing calming techniques, you can make this process less arduous. Reach out to friends and family for moral support, or even consider hiring a professional organizer to assist you.
Preparing the House for Sale
Before selling your home, there are key steps you need to take to get it ready for the market including making any necessary updates and repairs. Prioritizing crucial home improvements can elevate the market value of the property. Simple actions like painting, addressing minor damages, and thorough cleaning can substantially enhance its attractiveness to potential buyers. Consequently, these measures boost the likelihood of securing a rapid sale at an optimal price.
The Advantages of Yard and Garage Sales
Hosting a yard or garage sale can be an effective way to get rid of items that you don’t plan to keep. Huge time savings can be realized by using free online tools to easily create posters to spread the word. Involve family and friends to assist in the organization and running of the sale, making the task less daunting.
Opting for an Estate Sale
If the property contains numerous valuable or large-scale items, an estate sale may be the way to go. Professional estate sale companies can handle all aspects, from pricing and advertising to the sale itself, ensuring that items are sold at fair market value. This route can be especially helpful for families unfamiliar with the worth of antiques or collectibles.
Consulting the Experts
Don’t overlook the importance of seeking advice from specialists. Estate liquidators, real estate brokers, and certified appraisers can offer invaluable insights into maximizing profits and ensuring legal compliance. Their expertise can save you both time and money, and provide peace of mind during an emotionally taxing period.
Going Digital with Key Records
It’s prudent to digitize essential documents like wills, financial records, and sentimental letters or photographs. Use dedicated software or secure cloud storage solutions to keep these digital copies safe and easily accessible. Not only does this make future access easier, but it also offers an extra layer of protection against accidental loss.
The Importance of a Strong Support Network
Never overlook the value of a strong network of friends and family during this challenging time. Whether it’s emotional encouragement or hands-on help with sorting and moving items, your support system can play an essential role. The emotional reassurance from loved ones is just as important as the tangible help they offer in organizing and decision-making. You can even find relief with online grief resources (like Grief Collective). Together, these elements of support can significantly lighten the emotional and logistical load of the task at hand.
Undertaking the organization and clearing of a deceased loved one’s residence is undeniably a massive emotional and logistical task. However, with thoughtful preparation, professional guidance, and a solid support network, you can accomplish this mission with resilience and grace. Prioritize your well-being, give yourself permission to take time off when necessary, and keep in mind what truly holds value as a tribute to your loved one’s legacy.
Kimberly Hayes enjoys writing about health and wellness and created Public Health Alert to help keep the public informed about the latest developments in popular health issues and concerns.