Life can throw you curveballs that leave you in a state of shock and helplessness. No matter how severe it is, a health issue can take life’s complexities to a whole new level. Whether you’re coping with an ongoing illness, healing from surgery, or trying to get a grip on a diagnosis that completely alters your life’s course, simplifying matters is absolutely vital. If you’re in the midst of it or just want to prepare for any unexpected occurrences, here are three ways to start simplifying your life.
Streamline Your Daily Routines and Reduce Decisions
When dealing with a health issue, such as a mesothelioma diagnosis, your emotional and mental energy will drain quickly. You might even find yourself having no physical energy to deal with the life around you. In this situation, the last thing you want to add to the mix is the pressure of making choices on even the little things.
Streamlining your routines can bring order to your life and help free up precious mental space. For instance, you should stop worrying about what to have for every single meal, but you can work with your healthcare provider to decide on your diet and prepare your meals during the week. Weekend batch cooking works amazingly well in this situation and allows you to keep ‘cooking’ off your to-do list.
Similarly, if you’re perpetually late at everything, set out your clothes the night before and make it a point to prep your stuff ready to go. This can eliminate unnecessary decision fatigue as well. Remember, you give your mind permission to unwind and concentrate on your most immediate needs by stripping your life of as many decisions as you can.
Declutter Your Physical Space
When you’re living with a chronic condition, your energy is at a premium, and a cluttered space can further drain it to a serious level. It’s as if your brain is all knotted up along with the mess. To take control of it, you need to divide everything into small, manageable tasks.
For instance, you can begin with the kitchen, clearing the countertop of items not presently needed. Having done that, designate an area for your meds and other related health products. Another nice idea is to build a peaceful corner where you can sit back, relax, and unwind with no disorder to disturb you. Remember, having a defined physical area actually does clear the head, particularly when working with a chronic condition.
Prioritize Self-Care and Find Moments of Joy
When everything seems bleak, you must not feel depressed but create your own moments of joy. Conditions like mesothelioma can make you forget your own needs.
Remember, self-care is not an indulgence but something that should never be overlooked. Prioritizing self-care helps refill your batteries, deal with stress, and keep you optimistic. No matter how small, adding elements of pleasure to your day will have an impact.
This could involve taking time out for activities that you find pleasurable: reading a book, listening to your favorite music, spending time outdoors, or practicing mindfulness will all work. Don’t forget to prioritize good sleep and stick with a healthy diet to stay in control.
Endnote
Dealing with a health challenge can be overwhelming, but it should take control of your life. Simplify it all, and you will be able to make some room for peace, healing, and real well-being. Remember to put your needs first, take help when offered, and take things one step at a time.