Claire's experience with chronic illness and disability has helped her find meaning in small moments, celebrate progress no matter the size, and embrace happiness on her own terms. Her reflections remind us that disability doesn’t take away our ability to feel joy — it just teaches us to find it differently.
Continue reading to learn more about Claire's journey.
What Helps Me Keep Going on the Hardest Days
On the hard days, I like to remind myself that everything is temporary. If I am frustrated about something, I remember that feelings will pass. I try and ground myself into self care and talk about what is causing me trouble.
How Chronic Illness Shifted My View of Happiness
I used to be a very type A person. I was a planner. I made sure that I always stuck to the plan. It’s funny how a chronic illness and disability can completely change who you are, but not in a negative way.
I have been able to grow into myself, rather than lose myself. I take joy in the little things. On the hard days, simply sitting in the backyard in the sunshine will bring me happiness. Happiness exists on so many levels, and sometimes you have to start small with finding little ways to make your heart happy.
Why I Celebrate Even the Smallest Wins
Celebrating small wins is everything. Right now, I am going through a major health flare. Things that used to be easy for me suddenly feel like a giant mountain that I have to learn how to climb again.
I have learned that verbalizing helps me a lot. I’ll talk about the little wins with the people that I love so that they don’t feel so small.
What I’d Tell My Past Self About Happiness and Chronic Illness
If I could tell my past self one thing about finding happiness with a chronic illness, it would be to let go of expectations. I had so many expectations of what my life would look like it took me losing everything to realize that happiness comes in so many shapes and forms.
My life may not look like what I once planned in grade school, but it won’t stop me from enjoying my time on this earth.
You’re Not Alone: My Advice to Others Struggling to Find Joy
If you are struggling to find joy in the midst of your health challenges, know that you are not alone. I have felt so alone in my journey, so many times, but it took me immersing myself in an online community of disabled people to realize that we are an army of warriors.
It blew my mind to learn that during all of my health issues, there was somebody five minutes down the street going through very similar ones. My friend and I only met last year, but we have been chronically ill neighbors this whole time!
This world is so big, and even if you are trapped in your room right now, dealing with your health, know that there are other people out there that you will meet who will love and cherish you for who you are.
Follow Claire on Instagram to follow her along through her journey.
Interested in exploring more? Check out more stories from Claire:
Embracing Healing in the New Year: Claire's Story
Navigating Life as a Disabled Couple: The Importance of Care and Support
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