Managing a chronic illness comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to setting goals and intentions for the new year. As someone navigating this journey, Madelyn has learned to adapt her approach to goal-setting in a way that honors her health and well-being. Continue reading to explore her tips and advice for those battling chronic conditions.
Breaking Down Long-Term Goals
When I set my personal goals, I begin by breaking my long-term aspirations into smaller, manageable objectives that gradually build on one another. During the toughest periods of my illness, I established a simple intention: to get out of bed every day. Even if that meant just sitting on the couch, it was a step forward.
From that initial goal, I began to expand my objectives, adding short walks around my home and incorporating brief periods of standing. Each small success motivated me to continue pushing my boundaries. Today, I’m proud to say that I work out weekly and can walk for 15 minutes.
However, it’s essential to remember that my health comes first. There are times when I face setbacks or have to slow down my progress, and I’ve learned that this is not a failure but a part of the journey. The key is to remain flexible and kind to myself, recognizing that my well-being is the priority.
Listening to My Body
This year, one of my primary focuses is to “heal forward” by listening to my body more closely. I often have a tendency to push myself, even when I start to feel signs of struggle. Unfortunately, this often leads to overexertion, leaving me drained both mentally and physically.
By tuning in to my body’s signals and respecting its limits, I hope to conserve my energy and maintain a more sustainable pace. This practice of mindfulness is essential for my healing journey and allows me to make progress without compromising my health.
Embracing Self-Kindness
As I move through 2025, there’s one mindset I’m committed to fostering: learning to be kinder to myself. I have always been my own harshest critic, often setting unrealistic expectations that hinder my ability to pursue my desires and aspirations.
This year, I’m focusing on building a healthier relationship with myself. It’s about acknowledging my efforts, celebrating small victories, and recognizing that it’s okay to take things at my own pace. Embracing self-compassion is vital for my growth and resilience.
A Message for the Chronic Illness Community
To others in the chronic illness community, I want to share an important reminder: your goals and future accomplishments are uniquely yours. They don’t have to adhere to a specific timeline or be influenced by what others want for you. It’s crucial to understand that your journey is valid, regardless of how it compares to someone else's.
Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and allow yourself the grace to pursue your aspirations without judgment. You are worthy of achieving your dreams at your own pace, and that journey is just as meaningful as anyone else’s.
Follow Madelyn on Instagram to learn more about her journey.
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