Living with a chronic illness can be challenging and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to define your life. With the right mindset and strategies, it is possible to thrive and find purpose even in the face of health challenges.
There’s no doubt that it’s hard to live with a chronic illness or two. Life always feels like an uphill battle. I get it! I live that reality too, every day and every moment.
However, I can come to realize that mindset really matters. For instance, if I am gloomy and always focusing on the negative aspects of my day and life, I feel worse and I experience more pain.
Further, if I think that my life is over because there is so much I can’t do, then what I think repeatedly can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. In other words, if I think things will get worse and I will feel worse, it will probably happen.
It did for me for a while. Then one day I realized that from the moment I open my eyes until I close my eyes for the night, I was telling myself negative things. And yes, I felt worse. So, my big revelation occurred when I realized that it doesn’t have to be like that. I can focus on more positive things even on the worse days.
I started meditating regularly and living a more mindful life. I started journalling regularly and taking deep breaths a few times a day, especially when stressed. And guess what? I started feeling more positive, and I had a better quality of life.
Here are some valuable tried-and-true tips that I have learned over the twenty plus years about how to embrace purpose and live a fulfilling life, despite your chronic illness.
1. Acceptance and Self-Compassion
The first step in thriving with chronic illness is accepting your condition and being kind to yourself. Understand that it’s normal to feel frustrated, sad, or even angry about your situation. Allow yourself to grieve the life you had before the illness and be compassionate towards yourself during difficult times. Embrace self-acceptance and focus on what you can control rather than dwelling on what you can’t.
2. Define Your Purpose
Living with purpose gives life meaning and direction. Take time to reflect on what truly matters to you and what brings you joy. Your purpose could be as simple as being there for your loved ones, pursuing a hobby, or making a positive impact on others. Let your passions guide you and don’t be afraid to adapt to your purpose as your life evolves.
3. Set Realistic Goals
With chronic illness, it’s essential to set achievable goals. Break down your larger objectives into smaller, manageable tasks. Celebrate each accomplishment, no matter how small, as it will build momentum and boost your confidence. Be flexible with your goals and adjust them as needed to accommodate your health fluctuations.
4. Prioritize Self-Care
Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally is crucial for thriving with a chronic illness. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough rest, engaging in regular exercise, and managing stress. Listen to your body and give it the care and attention it needs to function optimally.
5. Seek Support
Surround yourself with a strong support network of family, friends, or support groups who understand your challenges. Talking to others who share similar experiences who lift you up can be empowering and help you gain valuable insights into coping strategies.
6. Be Adaptable
Living with a chronic illness often requires adapting to new circumstances and finding innovative solutions. Embrace the changes in your life and look for opportunities to learn and grow from them. Be open to trying new treatments, therapies, or lifestyle adjustments that could improve your quality of life.
7. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness can help you stay present and appreciate the small joys in life. Engaging in meditation or mindful activities can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while fostering a sense of gratitude and resilience.
8. Find Meaning in Challenges
Chronic illness can be an unexpected teacher. Instead of seeing it as a roadblock, view it as an opportunity for personal growth. Consider how your experiences can help others going through similar challenges or how they can give you a unique perspective on life.
9. Be Creative
Engaging in creative activities can be therapeutic and provide a sense of purpose. Whether it’s painting, writing, gardening, or any other creative outlet, it can offer a way to express your emotions and connect with your inner self.
10. Seek Professional Help
Therapy or counseling can be beneficial for individuals dealing with chronic illness. A trained professional can help you navigate the emotional aspects of living with a chronic condition and provide tools to cope with the challenges.
Therefore, living with chronic illness can undoubtedly be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be devoid of purpose and fulfillment. Embrace your journey, focus on what brings you joy, and surround yourself with a supportive community. Remember, your chronic illness is just one aspect of your life. With the right mindset and strategies, you can thrive and live a life filled with purpose and meaning. It is well worth the effort to try.
May you be well and live with purpose!
Irene Roth
Living With Chronic Illness 