When your baby is in the NICU the days are long. The path forward may be unclear, you may feel exhausted and overwhelmed. This quick writing exercise will help you let go, organize your thoughts, and begin to see your next best steps.
Let’s find some peace. Take a deep breath… and let’s make space for clarity.
Step 1: Release, and Let It All Out
Grab a piece of paper, the notes app on your phone, or download the FREE printable at the bottom of this page. Free yourself of the emotional labor you carry by holding it all inside, and trying to organize it alone—let go and write it down! What you write doesn’t have to make sense or be a complete thought. You can write in freeform or jot down a basic list.
What are you worried, angry, sad, scared for, grieving, fearful, or feeling guilty about?
What’s on your to-do list for today and the upcoming week?
What logistics do you need to plan?
Do you have any nagging thoughts, ideas, or desires?
Step 2: Organize The Chaos
Review what you wrote in Step 1 and identify the TOP 3 items you can tackle today. Circle them.
For each item you chose, consider the following:
What kind of practical or emotional help do you need right now?
Who from your circles of support can help you? In what ways?
What resources can your baby’s NICU make available to you and your family? Who on the floor will you talk to about your current needs?
Step 3: Look Forward with Clarity
Based on what you wrote in Step 2, identify your current next best step or two, and write them down.
Write down one thing you are proud of or that is working well for you in your life right now and take a moment to celebrate your small victory—high five, you are doing this!