It can be really overwhelming to pay bills when you’re not doing well. I swear, so many of my ideas in Get it Done When You’re Depressed have to do with the little things- cleaning a house, making lunches for kids, finishing a project, paying bills, exercising, getting out of bed when you’re in a bipolar down swing! It’s easy for these things to get lost in a depression fog!
One of the most popular tips in the book is to work with a friend. I regularly go to a coffee shop with friends and we simply work together. We talk when we first sit down and then we work. I can do email, write my books, or do my paperwork. I often bring a big pile of letters, bills etc in a bag and just go through them one by one. I bring large clips so that I can organize them as I work and put them in a small file if needed. I am literally 100% more productive when I do my bills with a friend sitting there! It’s odd, but it works!
You are so right about working alongside a friend, as long as that friend has a similar work style/ethic! My boyfriend and I work side by side paying bills, budgeting, etc. and it is delightful to have him right there. Before, it was very difficult.
Sandra
How does one go about finding such friends? All the people I know don’t understand that being around people is necessary. And, they don’t want to be around me because I cry too easily over things that others would only find sentimental. Help. I don’t have insurance so I don’t see a therapist. Nor do I have a car as we are a one car family. Some days my husband can ride share, but no set schedule to it. Some of my family understands but not really.
I have cited and recommended you on my website to my clients who are dealing with depression. I really appreciate how you break down ideas and give strategies. I use your book ‘Getting it Done When You’re Depressed’.
To comment on this post I think it can really help having supportive friends and I think any of us need more focus when it comes to taking care of bills or other household management tasks. Thanks Julie!