New Years Resolutions (For Someone Sick)

I don't know about you, but whenever I set my New Years Resolutions, I always give myself targets that are unattainable and then beat myself up about it in February when I've already failed.

For 2018, I want to set myself some goals that are completely doable.

Suffering with CFS/ME (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis) means that there are some normal, everyday things that, sometimes, I just can't do. However, I'm going to try and push myself to live the healthiest and happiest life I can with this illness. And if you're somebody who's in a similar boat as I am, maybe these resolutions will give you some inspiration for the New Year.

1. Shower every day. I know, this should be an easy one, but I did say everyday things can be hard. We all know that you always feel better after a shower. It's refreshing, it helps wake you up, and you're bound to feel better within yourself if you're clean. There are just times when it's hard to motivate myself to do it when my energy is so limited.
2. Get Dressed every day. At least into clean pajamas. Again, I know that this will undeniably make me feel better.
3. Keep on top of meds. When you have a handful of pills to take every day in the morning, afternoon and evening, it's hard to keep on top of them. Sometimes it's easier to just say "FUCK IT, I'll definitely take that one tomorrow." But I'm not a medical professional, and unless a doctor tells me otherwise, I should probably take all of the medications I'm meant to take at the right times everyday.
4. Walk regularly. Part of having CFS/ME means that exercise has gone out of the window. There's a limit to what I can do (and CFS/ME effects on exercise and your ability to do it is unique to each sufferer), but going for a walk is well within my capabilities—at least most of the time.
5. Meditate at night. I have tried to meditate before, but I was not very good at it. I found myself getting bored and getting fidgety. In 2018 I want to become more mindful, and I think that, by persevering with meditation, could help me along the way.
6. Keep a journal. This is an obvious one. Writing your thoughts and feelings down helps clarify things and helps you let things go. Everyone recommends that you do this, and I have done it before (for years) and it always did help.
7. Live and work in a tidy space. KEEP ROOM TIDY.
8. Eat healthy. Another obvious one.
9. When you're angry at your illness, don't blame friends or family.
10. Don't give up. If something doesn't work straight away, it doesn't mean it wont work at all.

These things might sound easy, but you'd be surprised how many times I have avoided doing them. I'm a sucker for staying in pajamas all day. This list should help me lead a healthier life and make me feel better on the inside, even if my ME/CFS is clinging onto every bone in my body.

For anyone else who's making their resolutions—make sure you keep them within reach. Every achievement is an achievement, no matter how big or small it is.

And for those who are dealing with any sort of illness or disability, you're gonna do great in 2018! Keep pushing and living life to the full (wow— could I sound any more cliche?) because this is going to be an awesome year for us all!