Living with fibromyalgia comes with a myriad of challenges, but one of the toughest battles besides the relentless pain is dealing with brain fog. It feels like my thoughts are constantly slipping away, making everyday tasks daunting. Without a password saver, I'm perpetually resetting passwords. Finding a balance between being productive and losing my train of thought is a continuous struggle.
Strategies for Managing Brain Fog
One method that has significantly helped me is journaling. Writing things down ensures I don’t lose important thoughts and tasks. It’s a small step, but it makes a big difference in managing my day. Despite this, I still battle with my attention span and getting things done.
To combat this, I've adopted a strategy where I focus on three key tasks for my business and three essential tasks for myself each day. This approach helps me prioritize and manage my limited energy effectively.
Personal Priorities
- Aquatic Therapy: The pool is my sanctuary. Even though I can't swim, the treadmill underwater and general movement in the pool are pain-free activities that bring me immense joy.
- Meditation: Regular meditation helps me center my thoughts and reduce stress.
- Family Time: Spending quality time with my family is a top priority. It nurtures my soul and provides emotional support.
Business Focus
- Long-Term Planning: I focus on tasks that will have a lasting impact on my business rather than getting bogged down by less critical activities.
- Delegating Tasks: My husband is learning Klaviyo to manage our email marketing, and my son Joshua helps with packing orders. Asking for help has been a game-changer.
- Setting Realistic Goals: I aim for achievable goals that move my business forward without overwhelming myself.
Embracing Support and Self-Care
Learning to ask for help and delegate tasks has been crucial. It's okay to rely on others when managing fibromyalgia becomes too much. I've also embraced the importance of rest and self-care. When I’ve reached my limit, I remind myself that it’s perfectly okay to take a break.
Navigating life with fibromyalgia as a plus-size person presents additional challenges, but with the right strategies and support, it's possible to find a balance that works. Remember, it’s not about doing a million things but focusing on what truly matters and brings joy. And when you can't do anymore, it's okay to rest and recharge. My journey with My Beautiful Fluff has taught me that self-love and acceptance are key, and these principles help me navigate the complexities of living with fibromyalgia.