I signed up for the extra money, but cat-sitting came with unexpected benefits

Recently, I’ve been house-sitting and cat-sitting for someone in my neighborhood. My mental health had been volatile, and I’d been struggling with a lack of energy, so I wasn’t sure how I would feel living and working in a new place.

Contrary to my concerns, house-sitting and cat-sitting for the past two weeks have overwhelmingly cleared my head. Stepping into someone else’s home and adopting their routine gave me a sense of structure that I haven’t had the energy to create for myself lately. Temporarily leaving my everyday living space lifted a mental burden, making me feel like I could address my responsibilities with a clean slate. Rather than feeling isolated or tired, I’ve been more positive and productive.