Hey everyone!

How do you motivate yourself when illness does not leave you with much energy? How do you regain a positive state of mind when you’re a little bit down?

I have always struggled with new diagnoses and the aftermath of medical appointments. It takes me a moment to swallow the pill and for my brain to take in the information. It cogitates for several days.

Now I know the process and I let those few days of discomfort pass. I let things settle before deciding.

I often feel the urge, right after the appointment, to do what was immediately suggested to me: try a new product, a new therapy, make a new appointment. I also often feel guilty (Why didn't I do this sooner? It might have helped me heal faster?).

Now, I take the time to put a little distance. It is always very difficult to take stock and to see that my condition has not evolved as much as I wanted, that I am still not cured despite the time and all my efforts to achieve it. It's guilt-ridden and demoralizing at the same time.

So, I try to pamper myself to go up the slope. I give myself a little grace.

When it's very hard physically and mentally, I usually repeat small sentences to encourage myself. These are my little “mantras”.

·      One day at a time.

·      Tomorrow is another day.

·      I can do it.

·      Another morning.

·      This too shall pass.

·      Admit and overcome.

Over the years, I've made up my own little tune to get my brain to stay on track and calm the anxiety.

Have a daily routine, eat the best you can, go for a walk every day, take the medications. I hold on to all these little things to stay on course for recovery.

Some time ago, I became interested in the publications of Mel ROBBINS. She is an American motivation coach who offers simple principles for self-motivation. Count 5-4-3-2-1 and start an action. Do a high-5 in the mirror while smiling. It's the little things that help me every day. She has written books that can be listened to as audio books, and she has an Instagram page that I like to follow.

I hope this gives you some ideas on how to establish positive and motivating habits.

STEP BY STEP, WE WILL GET THERE.

Pericordially yours,

Vali