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© 2012 TSM
I’ll be completely honest.  I’m not a fan of New Year resolutions because most of us set ourselves up for failure by selecting a goal which is too difficult and all encompassing.  These types of resolutions require the individual to change most of their way of being in the timeframe of an overnight.  Is there anything wrong with challenging ourselves with self improvement?  Absolutely not.  But when you’re struggling with ME/CFS, let’s not add just one more big failure to the pile of reasons why we sometimes grind on ourselves.

Although the patients experience with ME/CFS can differ, there is one consistent thread that I hear from everyone – Helplessness.  This disease persistently beats us down.  With the lack of recognition, with the lack of medical treatment, with the lack of understanding from many of those around us, and with our own self doubts.  It can be daunting.  And in the face of this, it can be easy to allow ME/CFS to control us and to give in.  We forget that there are aspects of this disease that we do have control over.

We control our daily choices about rest, nutrition and supporting our immune systems.  We control our data collection and review of patterns.  We control how we communicate and seek support.  We control our own attitudes and approach to ME/CFS.

I encourage you to start by taking control of just one of these areas of your ME/CFS struggle.  Then over time as you feel confident in that area, add something else.  Slowly, patiently and consistently begin to take back what you can control about ME/CFS.

My wish for all of you is a year filled with step by step success in taking control of ME/CFS.  Where are you going to start?  Please COMMENT or Send in your thoughts and I’ll post them.  You can use the Contact Form or send an email to Martha at DefeatCFS dot net.

Look for a weekly posting on Tuesdays.  And consider being part of the conversation.

Be Well Again,

Martha
 


Comments

Tim B
01/07/2012 7:51pm

This blog really hit home with me. I remember a couple of decades ago that someone was saying that it really helps to talk to people who are going through, or have gone through, a similar experience. My own experience mirrors what you are saying.

In looking back on my life when I was well, and moving toward when I developed this illness, I know there were times when I was simply placing too many things and too many stresses on my life. Now I have simplified a lot.

Some who are unknowing will say 'oh there will be good days and bad days'. But it's not that simplistic. When I get good rest at night, and listen to my body's signals about being tired or irritable, it helps me feel better. Or if I am working on something in my business, though it goes against my learned patterns of continuing on even when I don't feel my best, now I do generally take those breaks, a short nap, listen to music and videos which I find more comforting. That is often what determines whether I have a better day or a not so good one.

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Martha
01/17/2012 4:58pm

Thanks Tim. It's great that you listen to your body even though your brain (and your natural drive) urge you to push yourself too far. Recovery from ME/CFS takes willpower to restrain your activities and reserve your energy. It's not easy but for many it can be the ticket out.

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