Veterans Day Appreciation: Honoring Caregivers Who Serve Those Who Served

Some days feel heavier than others. You’re tired, your mind is full, your body needs rest—but responsibilities don’t pause. Whether you’re studying to become an HHA or CNA, already working in the field, or balancing family on top of it all, staying motivated when you’re exhausted can feel almost impossible. But here’s the truth: the fact that you’re still trying means you’re stronger than you think. At Fordham Institute Inc., we see students and caregivers every day who push through long hours, personal struggles, and sleepless nights—all because they believe in a better future. This post is for you. 1. Remember Your “Why” When motivation fades, purpose takes over. Ask yourself: Why did I start this journey? Who am I doing this for? What future am I working toward? Your “why” is stronger than your tiredness. 2. Focus on One Task at a Time Thinking about everything you need to do can feel overwhelming. Instead: ✔ Break your day into small steps. ✔ Finish one task, then move to the next. ✔ Celebrate each little win. Progress is still progress—even when it’s slow. 3. Rest When You Can (Not Just When You’re Done) You don’t have to earn rest by reaching burnout. Take a 10-minute break. Close your eyes, breathe deeply. Drink water or eat something nourishing. Even small moments of rest help your mind and body recharge. 4. Speak Kindly to Yourself Instead of saying: “I can’t do this,” try: “I’m doing my best.” “This feeling is temporary.” “I have gotten through hard days before—I will do it again.” The way you speak to yourself matters more than you think. 5. You Don’t Have to Be Perfect—You Just Have to Keep Going Your journey won’t always look perfect. You might miss a study session, feel behind, or need a day to catch your breath. That’s okay. What matters is that you don’t stop showing up for your future.  Keep Going—Your Effort Will Be Worth It You might be tired today—but one day, you will look back and be grateful you didn’t give up. 📞 Want to start or continue your journey in healthcare? Call 718-480-1804 You’re tired, but you’re still trying. And that is something to be proud of 💛

Life doesn’t always slow down when we need it to. Sometimes, everything happens at once—school, work, family, bills, health, emotions—and it feels like you’re barely holding everything together. If you’re a Home Health Aide (HHA), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), or a student in training right now and life feels heavy, this post is for you. At Fordham Institute Inc., we see how hard our students and caregivers work—not just in the classroom or at their jobs, but in life. And we want to remind you of something important: Struggling does not mean you’re failing. It means you’re still fighting. You’re Not Alone So many students and caregivers are silently dealing with stress, financial pressure, family issues, grief, or exhaustion— and still showing up. You may not see it, but someone else is sitting in class with a heavy heart, someone else is leaving work and crying in their car, someone else is pushing through because they believe in their future. You are never alone in this. Small Steps Still Count as Progress When life feels overwhelming, you don’t have to have everything figured out. Just focus on what you can do today: ✔ Attend class ✔ Complete one assignment ✔ Take care of your client or loved one ✔ Drink water, eat something, breathe Even if it’s not perfect, showing up is a victory. Take Care of Yourself, Too You cannot pour from an empty cup. Take care of you in small, simple ways: Get some sunlight or fresh air Take a warm shower or nap when you can Write your feelings down or talk to someone you trust Say “no” when your heart and mind need rest Taking care of yourself is not selfish—it’s survival.  Your Story Isn’t Over Yet Life may feel difficult right now, but this is not the end of your story. You are growing in strength, resilience, and faith—even if it doesn’t feel like it. What seems like pressure now is preparing you for a stronger future. You’ve made it this far. You will make it further. 📞 Want support or ready to start your journey in healthcare? Call 718-480-1804 You are trying. You are learning. You are stronger than you think 💛