Merlino & Gonzalez - November 2021

Almost everyone at some point has encountered a task that is seemingly simple, but no matter what they do, they can’t complete it. These tasks can be as straightforward as making the bed or something bigger, like cleaning an entire room. For many, this is an obstacle that they may want to do but can’t, which weighs heavily on them and becomes detrimental to their mental health. It’s important to understand that the impossible task is not a sign of laziness; depression and anxiety can make any task feel much bigger and more difficult than it actually is. If you find yourself unable to do the things you need or want to do, try these techniques to help overcome your obstacles. Break up the task. When the overarching task feels daunting, breaking it up into smaller segments can help you manage it. If you’re cleaning the kitchen, clean for only a few minutes at a time before taking a break. It might take longer, but the space will be clean at the end of the day. Make the task more enjoyable. Play music or involve your pet in some way to make the task fun or create a reward system for yourself. For example, tidying a specific area of the house or folding a basket of laundry may earn you time to play video games or watch TV. Alternating tasks and rewards is a great way to overcome any task, big or small. It can help to consider why the task feels so impossible, especially if you used to enjoy it. Try to remember what made it enjoyable and see if you can return to that state of mind. If the objective is not so urgent, determine its importance and if the task can be saved for another day.

Overcoming the Impossible Task IMPROVING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH ONE STEP AT A TIME

When all else fails, you can always ask someone for support or even pay someone else to do the task for you. No matter what you decide, there are ways to defeat the impossible task.

5 Great Picture Books for Thanksgiving

HELP YOUR KIDS LEARN ABOUT THE HOLIDAY

When your kids ask why we celebrate Thanksgiving, it’s easy to say that it’s a day to be thankful for what you have. That much is true, but if you want to teach your children about the holiday and traditions associated with it, a good book is one of the best ways! So, if you’re looking for books to read with your kiddos about Thanksgiving, its traditions, and the importance of gratitude, here are a few titles to get you started!

‘Squanto’s Journey: The Story of the First Thanksgiving’ by Joseph Bruchac The history of Thanksgiving, as it relates to the Native American people, can be complicated. This book provides some context for the first Thanksgiving and explains the holiday’s legacy in a way that even young readers can understand. ‘Duck for Turkey Day’ by Jacqueline Jules How would you feel if you were a kid who didn’t eat turkey for Thanksgiving? While turkey may be a staple on most Thanksgiving tables, this book is a great way to show kids that Americans of all cultures can practice gratitude and enjoy the holiday, no matter what foods are on the table.

‘We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga’ by Traci Sorell Different cultures have different words for gratitude and their celebrations of it. Traci Sorell’s book is all about otsaliheliga , which means “gratitude” in the Cherokee language, and how it’s central to the Cherokee Nation’s celebration of the new year, which begins each fall. ‘Over the River and Through the Wood’ by Lydia Maria Child If you and your child love gorgeous illustrations and poetic sing-song words, you can’t beat “Over the River and Through the

Wood,” which takes readers on a magical journey through a picturesque, snow-filled Thanksgiving day in New England. ‘Balloons Over Broadway’ by Melissa Sweet What would Thanksgiving be without the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade? This book, which is also gorgeously and lovingly illustrated, is all about how Tony Sarq, the puppeteer behind the parade’s magical helium balloons, helped the parade get its start. Readers of all ages might learn something new from this one!

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