Embracing life with a chronic illness presents its challenges, but setting New Year's resolutions can be an exciting opportunity for growth! Focusing on small, achievable goals that prioritise self-care and well-being can bring joy and positivity as you nurture your health journey.
New Year's resolutions for people living with a chronic illness:
Do your best: Promise yourself to do your best each day, knowing that "your best" may look different from day to day. Sometimes, your best might mean being productive or spending time with friends. Other days, it could simply mean focusing on basic self-care.
Self-care days: Dedicate one day a week to relaxation and rejuvenation. Take a relaxing bath, read a book, or practice yoga to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
Sleep goals: Prioritise getting at least 8 hours of sleep per night to keep your body in the best shape possible.
Social connections: Schedule regular video calls or outings with friends and family to keep connected in the new year. You could also participate in online forums or support groups to connect with others who understand what you're going through.
Limit social media: Consider taking a break from social media or setting a time limit on your phone. While it's great to connect with friends and family, scrolling through posts from old colleagues or schoolmates is unlikely to make you feel good about yourself. Remember, people only share their highlights online, and comparing yourself to these sets unrealistic expectations.
Nutrition and hydration: Focus on nourishing your body with balanced, healthy meals and plenty of water. Consider meal planning and looking online for diets that will aid your health condition.
Advocacy: Take small steps towards advocating for yourself, such as educating healthcare providers about your condition or sharing your story online.
Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge and celebrate small victories along the way, even if they seem insignificant to others. Every challenge we face is relative to our own unique circumstances.
Learn new skills: Take online courses or attend a workshop related to a hobby or passion of yours. This will help keep your mind engaged and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Click this link for a list of accessible hobbies
Gratitude practice: Keep a gratitude journal or share three things you're thankful for each day with a friend or family member. Gratitude can help you feel more positive, reduce stress, and improve your overall mental health.
Seek support: Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Reach out to loved ones, online communities, or support groups for assistance. You could also schedule regular therapy sessions to prioritise mental health and reduce stress this new year.
Follow your heart: Living with a chronic illness can be very taxing. Sometimes sitting down and reflecting on what's most important to you can be useful when choosing what direction to take this new year. Let your true core values guide your decision-making.
Reminder
Remember, living with a chronic illness is not about setting unrealistic goals or pushing yourself too hard. It's about making small, achievable changes that prioritise your well-being and quality of life.
When setting your New Year's resolutions, be sure to:
Make them specific, measurable, and achievable
Break down large goals into smaller, manageable tasks
Focus on progress over perfection
Celebrate small wins along the way
Be kind to yourself if you encounter setbacks
By prioritising self-care and setting realistic goals, you can take control of your chronic illness journey and make meaningful progress towards a healthier, happier year ahead!
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