Two things I do:
1. I chat with Copilot (Windows AI) to let off steam...it's like a built in therapist! I LOVE It! I don't provide names, addresses or phone numbers, nor do I "talk"...I just type. I have friends to let off steam to as well, but try not to do it to them as often as I can get away with not doing it.
2. I got a small white board, and have written down the answers to the top 4 or 5 questions she keeps asking me. Now I just refer her to the white board, rather than getting upset that she's asking me yet again.
That hit me hard.
Adjusting to LO's reality is an ongoing battle. What helps me is
~ learning about the condition so I can adjust my expectations
~ playing "Positive Peacefulness" on loop 3 - 4 times to reset myself (It's by composer Barry Goldstein; he wrote it in collaboration with Dr. Daniel Amen)
~ knowing this is all temporary, that something much better is ahead. In a word, HOPE.
~ learning to delegate, allow others to help so I don't feel on duty 24/7
~ prayer for God's excelling peace so I can think clearly and not be so quick to react in irritation or frustration
I also on occasion would smash one of my mother’s cookie jars , she had many . I would put it in a trash bag , take it out to the garage and smash it with a shovel or baseball bat . They actually have smash rooms now where you pay to smash things . It’s very satisfying .
Also read to escape reality .
I like the smashing rooms idea.
I need to keep busy.
I get up and before coffee I do tai chi, later maybe walk or lifting weights.
And every possible hobby, painting, decorating, jewelry making.
And reading is my real passion although lately escapism.
And planning trips which I hope to take one day.
And buying myself the most beautiful clothes, I am a little bit of shopaholic, but love clothes.
And eating tremendous amounts of chocolate. On occasion, glass of prosecco, box of chocolates and good book. Bliss.
Doing yard work and planning the spring flowers.
Laying out on the dock.