Many chronically ill individuals feel so exhausted and in pain all the time that they have a hard time setting goals and committing to them. It can be hard for us to do things that will improve our lives, even if it is by a bit because our energy levels are so low.
Instead, it is quite habitual for us to feel dejected and less than we ever were. However, this need not be the case, as we discussed in last week’s blog. We can work at changing our mindset so that it is much more positive and encouraging.
Whether we’re chronically or not, this should affect who we are on the inside. We’re still the same person we were before the onset of our chronic illness. We have the same values and beliefs. And we can still enjoy similar things, such as a warm bed, cozy chair to sit in, and our books and journals. We can crate quiet corners for ourselves where we can just sit and be with a warm cup of tea.
Therefore, our mindset truly matters in our lives. We can cultivate a positive attitude in our lives. We can set one or two small, realistic goals n our lives and we can take steps to achieve these goals.
So, what would you like to accomplish this year? A new year gives us a blank sleight, a hopeful new beginning to do things differently. It may be as simple as sitting down and deciding what’s missing in your life now. Maybe you’d like to socialize more or take a few day trips over the course of the year. Or you may want to start a new hobby. Or, maybe you’d like to start a blog. Or write a book.
Whatever it is, make sure that you write down your goal in your planner. Then break up the goal into small, achievable steps. Make sure it’s something you can complete in 10 or 15 minutes. That way, you’ll be sure to be able to do it even on those hardest days.
For example, say you want to bet more active. Maybe you’d like to walk for 20 minutes a day, 5 days a week. Just be sure to write it down. Then once you write it down, be sure to write it into your schedule. To do that, you must decide on the time you’d like to work on one part of your goal.
If there are days you can’t walk because you’re sore or tired, give yourself some grace and start again the next day. Don’t beat yourself up. Just keep progressing slowly.
By taking these steps, you’ll feel more in control of your life, despite living with a chronic illness.
Try it!
Living With Chronic Illness 