I admit that I struggled with the title for this post. I’m hesitant to call what I have a chronic illness. No one can see it. Few people know. I don’t know what I have – no one does. It certainly doesn’t have a name. The several doctors I’ve visited over the past 10 years don’t know. I’ve tried several medications and fancy treatments but nothing seems to stem the issue.
My illness usually shows itself in the form of headaches and unwavering dizziness. It keeps me in a blurred state in bed or on the couch or wherever sounds comfortable at the time (kitchen floor, perhaps?). Either way, I’m not about to leave the house let alone fire on all cylinders.
And yet, with a little bit of strategy, I’m able to get a little bit of work done even on my worst days.
Persevere, but know when to take a break.
Yes, it’s okay to push yourself. But it’s also okay to listen to your body. In fact, it’s recommended.
My illness likes to sneak up on me – like that one time I was strolling down Kuhio Avenue in Waikiki on my way to catch the bus to Dharmaville (yep, that happened!), or just sitting down during the previews for a movie night out with Sohrab (I still haven’t seen that movie…).
Be prepared.
Everywhere I go, and on my bedside table, I have my magic elixir – a small vial of essential oils from doTERRA that ease my headaches and help me relax. It’s seriously changed my life! My favorites have roll-on applicators and are no bigger than a small lipstick tube. These little miracles can help me get through a night out when my brain has other ideas, or can help me see in the pain-inducing dim light of a romantic restaurant. If you’re looking for something to help you relax, I absolutely recommend this. Get one of your own here!
Celebrate little victories.
We all have difficult days, and it’s so easy to get frustrated. By celebrating the little things, we can make those hard times a bit easier to bear. After all, sometimes you deserve that metaphorical (or real! No judgment here.) cookie after getting through a particularly rough day.
Remember that you are not alone.
Though we may have different illnesses, we can support each other. Sometimes it’s hard to remember that I’m technically sick. I’ve had spans of time where it didn’t affect me at all (what bliss!) and then it catches me off guard, back with a vengeance. Being able to rely on my husband, my family, my friends – for something as small as a shoulder to hold onto (and often, much more) – has made all the difference in my relationship with them as well as this illness. They have played an integral role in my comfort amidst this, and therefore, my life.
(Pssst. This post contains affiliate links – and I only share things I use and love.)