Written by: Jon Kessler, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
It is hard to think far into the future as a cancer patient. Many of us just live day-to-day and struggle with that. But, when we start to make promises to ourselves and think ahead, that’s when the struggles may not seem so insurmountable. Ask yourself, what can you do in the year ahead to help you along your cancer journey?
Some things to consider when you do make your cancer resolutions include having a more positive outlook on where you are, advocating for yourself without feeling guilty, not isolating yourself from others, and most importantly, taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and spiritually to the best of your abilities.
How can you advocate for yourself without feeling guilty? Easy. It is not a sign of weakness to ask for help. More people respect others who ask for help. It is a sign of vulnerability and authenticity, which are attractive traits to possess. Sharing what you need or what is going on may help you in that day-to-day struggle. It will remove some of the burdens you may be holding onto. Your friends and family are there to support you and provide any help they can. Take advantage of their generosity. Keeping your medical team in the loop only benefits you and your quality of life during this time.
In remaining positive during your journey, do what you can to be with others. Attend family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and other joyous occasions. It will bring you a sense of normalcy you may be lacking. It is okay if you cannot participate in the same way as before your diagnosis. That is okay. Give yourself grace and credit for accomplishing whatever you can regarding these times! You will see how this changes your outlook on things!
As to your resolution about taking care of yourself physically, some things are easy to do. First, get plenty of rest and sleep to remain strong! Secondly, find a diet that provides you with what you need to get through the day. Treatment may affect what you can eat, but find the foods and supplements that will fill your fuel tank. And finally, exercise in whatever way works for you. It might be a short walk, lifting light weights, or some light stretching. It gets the endorphins flowing, and you know how they help us feel!
How can you resolve to take care of yourself mentally? Try some of the things I previously mentioned. Unburden yourself of your guilt of asking for help. Do not isolate yourself and get involved with others. Take care of yourself physically. You will see how it relates to your mental state. You can also work with other cancer patients by participating in a support group (see last month’s article). When you make a difference in someone else’s life, it will make you feel better. Your mindset shifts from your issues to the fact that you have changed another’s mindset! Wow!
For your spiritual resolution, use your faith to tap into the strength of your higher power and your community. Do not look for blame in your spirituality for why this has happened to you. Faith is a strong motivator in believing what is possible. When you are open to what your higher power sends you, you can receive it and use it to change your life. Don’t be afraid to use your community as a source of support as well. As I said last month, there is strength and numbers. Allow your fellows to send their prayers to you! The more positivity that is sent to you, the more your positivity will emerge and help you move ahead in your journey.
I wish you all the best for the upcoming year! May you find the ability and strength to thrive!
I have a free resource guide that may benefit you with some of the above.
Please use this link to access it.
Jon Kessler, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Jon Kessler is a Cancer Coach, a former patient himself who works with recently diagnosed patients. He works with them one-to-one, using his proprietary program to take them from fear of the unknown to life after cancer and writing the next chapter of their stories. His motto is "taking you from surviving to thriving". Jon also presents workshops to cancer organizations and support groups around the world. He also also been featured on a radio program on the island of Dominica. He is the founder and owner of Cancer Care Coaching, LLC.
