Your Year, Your Pace: Making Changes with Chronic Illness
Supervised by Jennifer Buffalo, LPC-S, LMFT-S
A new year marks change. It’s a time to reflect on the past year—our mistakes, our goals, the people in our lives, and ourselves. For many, it’s a moment of renewal, a chance to set intentions or make changes we’ve been thinking about. But how do you make changes when something is chronic?
Chronic illness is a journey that comes with unpredictability. Some days, our energy allows us to tackle everything on our list. Other days, even the smallest tasks can feel impossible. When a new year starts, resolutions are made, giving us the opportunity to begin changes we may have been putting off. But with chronic conditions, it can be challenging to know where to start—or even what goals are realistic.
Here are a few ideas to help guide you as you set intentions or think about changes you want to make this year:
Take an inventory of self:
Check in with your physical, mental, and emotional health. Acknowledge your strengths and the areas where you want growth. Reflecting on where you are now is the first step in figuring out where you want to go.
Build your support system:
Surround yourself with people who understand and respect your journey. Whether it’s friends, family, or online communities, having support can make challenges feel less overwhelming and victories even sweeter.
Increase your advocacy skills:
Learn to speak up for your needs, whether it’s with healthcare providers, employers, or loved ones. Understanding your rights and knowing how to communicate your needs is empowering and can improve your overall well-being.
Keep up with appointments:
Regular check-ins with healthcare providers help you stay on top of your condition and catch any concerns early. Even small steps in managing your health can have a big impact over time.
Take time for self-care:
Self-care isn’t just about pampering—it’s about giving yourself permission to rest, recharge, and do things that nourish your mind and body. Find routines or activities that help you feel grounded, even if it’s just a few minutes each day.
Create a mental health toolbox:
Equip yourself with strategies to manage stress, anxiety, or setbacks. This might include mindfulness exercises, journaling, music, breathing techniques, or reaching out to someone you trust. Having tools ready can make it easier to navigate difficult days.
Remember, progress isn’t always linear, and small steps count. This year, focus on what feels achievable and meaningful to you, and give yourself grace along the way. Change doesn’t have to be drastic—it can start with tiny, intentional actions that honor your journey.
Above all, be kind to yourself. Chronic illness doesn’t define your potential or your worth. Each day is an opportunity to care for yourself, to grow, and to make choices that bring you closer to the life you want—at your own pace, in your own way.
If you or someone you know needs support, contact us at Luminary Counseling. We offer both individual therapy and support groups, including a Chronic Illness Support Group! Reach out to us at [email protected] or [email protected] if you’re interested.
