18 January marks the birthday of A.A. Milne, a date now celebrated as National Winnie the Pooh Day in honour of the characters he created for his son, Christopher Robin.

Although Milne was born long ago, the adventures of Pooh, along with his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood, remain as beloved as ever. Their gentle wisdom still speaks to us across generations.

I'm a recovering pessimist - I know that is a bit of a striking confession given the nature of my job. But it means that one of my favourite characters in the Pooh stories is the perennial pessimist Eeyore. And for carers — those who look after loved ones without fanfare or financial reward — one of  Eeyore's observations feels especially relevant and resonates with me this year:

"A little Consideration, a little Thought for Others, makes all the difference."

These words describe exactly what you do, every single day - making someone's life easier, even 'making their day',  through what you do and what you give. Even if the difference you make appears to go unacknowledged or unnoticed.

The Weight of Thoughtful Care

Whether you're helping an ageing parent dress in the morning, comforting a partner through illness, or guiding a child through complex medical needs, your constant consideration is evidenced daily by your actions. You anticipate another person's needs before they're spoken. You adjust your own life to accommodate someone else's well-being. You give your time, your energy, your patience —even when your reserves are running low.

It's not work that comes with applause. It often goes unnoticed. But it changes everything for the person you care for.

There's nearly 6 million carers in the UK who carry an emotional and physical weight that few truly understand. There are days of bone-deep exhaustion, periods of isolation, and sometimes a quiet grief for the life you've had to set aside. Yet still, you show up. Again and again. And it makes all the difference.

A Day for Carers to Pause, and Be Seen

Winnie the Pooh Day isn't just about a bear with a rumbly tummy and a passion for honey; a bouncy, active and fun-loving tiger; a brave but quiet, small and timid pink pig; or a large, wise owl, who is sometimes a real bore. Or even an old, perpetually gloomy, pessimistic donkey who sulks. It's a celebration of values that matter deeply: kindness, thoughtfulness, and showing up for the people we love.

To all the carers reading this — today, let you be the one who is cared for. Let this be a small reminder that what you do is not invisible. You are seen. You are valued. And the difference you make cannot be measured.

If you can, take a moment today just for you. Wrap yourself in something warm. Make a cup of tea. Read something comforting - maybe something nostalgic. Even if you can't visit Ashdown Forest in East Sussex (the real-life inspiration for the Hundred Acre Wood) maybe get outdoors in a wood or by a river to sample the restorative powers of nature. Or simply sit in silence and breathe. You've earned that — and so much more.

There Is Space to Be Heard

Caring for others can sometimes mean we forget to care for ourselves. Or we simply don't have the space to process all the thoughts and feelings we're carrying.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or just need someone to talk to who understands, please know that support is available.

I offer counselling specifically for carers who need a space to be heard, to reflect, and to find ways forward that honour both your loved one and yourself. You can find out more at https://caringcounsellingworthing.co.uk.

In Pooh's Words, Remember:

"Sometimes, the smallest things take up the most room in your heart."

Thank you for being one of those small, powerful things — showing up in quiet, loving ways that change lives every day.