17 Mantras People With Chronic Illness Turn to on Bad Days

In our darkest hours, we often cling to simplicity. A few simple words can hold incredible depth and meaning. Sometimes we don’t need to read another self-help book or an article about chronic pain. We just need to boil what we know down into a simple phrase that can help us find the strength to get through the day.

We asked our Mighty readers with chronic illnesses to share one mantra or quote that helps them cope when they’re having a bad day — physically, emotionally or both. The responses radiate the strength of the chronic illness community. If you find yourself needing some encouragement and community today, take a look at these quotes.

1. “Let whatever you do today be enough.” — submitted by Jenell F.

2. “It’s OK to lament all of it… but also remind myself to not stay stuck in the lament. Tomorrow will be a new day.” — submitted by Kim M.

3. “I am strong enough.” — submitted by Emily H.

4. “Recovery isn’t being lazy. We are all human and need to rest.” — submitted by Amelia G.

5. “This too shall pass.” — submitted by Donna G.

6. “One foot in front of the other.” — submitted by Monica W.

7. “The morning will come again because no darkness, no season, can last forever.” — from “Spring Day” by BTS, submitted by Sage G.

8. “You’ve survived 100% of the trials and hardships you’ve been through so far. You can survive this!” — submitted by Michelle R.

9. “I might have lost today’s battle, but tomorrow is a new day.” — submitted by Emma L.

10. “Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain.” — Vivian Green, submitted by Nicole D.

11. “You have survived 100% of your worst days.” — submitted by Betsy K.

12. “Not every day is a good day, but there is something good in every day.” — Alice Morse Earle, submitted by Cindy G.

13. “It is what it is… but that doesn’t mean you can’t work at being better and creating change.” — submitted by Sara H.

14. “I repeat the names of those I fight for: my goddaughter, my nieces and nephews.” —submitted by Anna C.

15. “It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” — Confucius, submitted by Lindsey W.

16. “Stay focused on gratitude. Shifting my focus to the things I’m already grateful for helps shift my attitude.” — submitted by Katy R.

17. “Just breathe.” — submitted by Tara U.

What would you add? Tell us some words you turn to in the comments below.