3 Things to Remember If Your Health Has Put Your Life on Hiatus

Tons of things can happen to put your life on hold. That feeling of treading water can be tough and there’s no shame in feeling down or frustrated by this. My life went on hiatus last year due to health issues and a whole eight months had to go with me, being mostly bedridden. It was tough, but I made it. If money, health, your job situation or something else has seemingly put your life on hiatus, I hope these thoughts can help you feel more positive.

1. It’s only temporary.

Reminding yourself that the way things are isn’t forever can go a long way to taking back control of your life. It might be a bad time at work, it could be bad health, but the moment which feels overwhelming will pass. Practicing mindfulness can go a long way, and I recommend checking out mindful.org for help and ideas for being mindful. It might sound silly, but don’t underestimate the power of stopping, taking a deep breath and letting it out. Pausing your thoughts for a moment can help stop you panicking and give you a chance to reassess what’s going on.

2. There are smaller things you can do.

If something big has put you on hold, think what smaller thing might still be possible. Say your health means you’re unable to get to the gym as usual; maybe some yoga would be easier for you now? That way, you can still feel you’re doing something and feel less like you have no control over your life. I tried some new hobbies like bath bomb making when I was stuck off work and low on energy. If you’ve been forced to stop education, perhaps there are related books you can read or an online course you can access to keep learning a bit. Finding something you can do, no matter how small, can help you keep feel useful and fulfilled. For everything you can’t do for now, there might be some small thing that can help you feel just a little better!

3. This has happened to other people.

I don’t mean this in an “other people have it worse” way; simply that it can help to remind yourself you’re not alone. Hope goes a long way in a bad situation. If it’s physical health, why not look for online or local communities of other people with health issues? There are also support groups for finances, those who have experienced loss, mental health and many other areas. Others will have found ways to deal with their situations and their stories may be able to help you. Reaching out can also help you feel more connected during a time of isolation.

Laters,

Ruthy xo

Follow this journey on the author’s blog.