One may wonder why celebrate small wins when you’re living with chronic illness. I know I did for quite some time. The reason why we have to celebrate good moments as if they are great wins, is because a lot of chronically ill individuals don’t have a lot of good moments unless they actually make those moments.
What do I mean by this? Well, when we live with pain and fatigue a lot of our days, we don’t really feel like celebrating. It seems that everything is always the same—on one plain. But as we celebrate these small moments, we suddenly realize that this isn’t the case. We have a lot of moments that good or even very good.
This is why celebrating small moments or good days is so important. Now most of us can’t get away with celebrating with a pizza and wine party or a wine and cheese get-to-getter with ten other people. However, we can go out for a quiet health lunch with a friend or spouse, or a nice walk in the country.
So, how can we celebrate these small moments? I think it’s important for us to have a list of places and things that we enjoy doing and that will put a smile on your face. Then when you want to celebrate a good day, choose one thing on your list and do it.
Here is my joyous list that I turn to when I want to celebrate.
- I go for a walk around the river, either alone or with my spouse.
- I go out for a nice lunch at my favorite spot.
- I take a short road trip – I love driving in the country and everywhere. Getting out of my ordinary place is invigorating and inspiring.
- I go for a massage. My massage therapist is great and she really helps me feel better about life.
- I buy myself a few new seasonal items for my closet. I find buying new clothes can really lift my spirits.
- I go for a coffee to my favorite café. I usually head out there alone to just sit in at a table alone and just let my thoughts drift.
- I watch my favorite TV series. I just love distraction from my pain and fatigue. But what’s more it usually puts a smile on my face.
So, as you can see, my list isn’t complicated. I can do these things without breaking the bank and I know in my case it puts a smile on my face.
Now it’s your turn. How can you celebrate these small moments of bliss and happiness?
Irene Roth
Living With Chronic Illness 