In the last week, I have coached my clients through some heavy topics:

911 calls

ER visits

School reprimands

Neighbor complaints

Expulsions

Elopements

While the coaching for each client was different, the thread that ran through every call was this:

Protect the Asset. 

What is “Protecting the Asset”?

“Protecting the asset” refers to the practice of safeguarding and preserving the valuable resources that are essential to the success and continuity of the mission. 

In the context of Autism Parenting, the mission is to care for our children and advocate for their best possible outcomes.

In this mission, YOU are the asset.

You Are Your Child’s Greatest Asset

As an Autism Mom, there’s no one in the world who understands, tends to, and advocates for your child like you do. 

This makes YOU your child’s greatest asset. 

And as such, YOU need protecting.

Unfortunately, no one is going to step up to ensure that you receive the support and respite that you need.

This is why it is your responsibility to take affirmative steps to protect yourself (mentally, emotionally, and physically).

7 Simple Ways to Protect the Asset

1️⃣ Drop the Constant Activity: Despite what the voice in your head is telling you, you don’t always need to be doing something.  Allow yourself moments of rest and relaxation.

2️⃣ Tune Out the “Shoulds” and the “Coulds”: Avoid being overwhelmed by unrealistic expectations. Focus on what’s essential in the present.

3️⃣ Stay in the Present Moment: Worrying about the past or the future can drain your energy. Practice mindfulness to stay grounded in the here and now.

4️⃣ Learn to Say NO: Flex your ability to decline tasks and responsibilities that overwhelm you, whether it’s to your child, a family member, your spouse, or the school PTO.

5️⃣ Take a Break: Stepping away, even briefly, can provide much-needed relief.  This could mean  walking away from your child during a meltdown and allowing them to self soothe.

6️⃣ Outsource: Don’t hesitate to seek help or delegate tasks when possible. Whether it’s hiring help or asking family and friends for assistance, outsourcing can lighten your load.

7️⃣ Communicate Your Needs: Instead of resenting people in your life for not understanding your struggles, tell them exactly what they can do or not do to support you.  

When you take these affirmative steps to protect the asset (which is YOU), you enhance your capacity to manage the challenges and show up for yourself and your family as a less stressed, more resilient version of yourself.

Have a great week!

Lisa

P.S. If you are struggling to Protect the Asset, this is exactly what I can help you with in my 1:1 coaching program. You can get started by booking a complimentary consultation call HERE.