Spring is supposed to be a season of growth and renewal, right? But for those of us living with chronic illness, it can sometimes feel like the world is moving at full speed, while we’re stuck in a constant cycle of struggle. Some days, it might feel impossible to find joy. But here’s the thing: joy doesn’t have to look like what society tells us it should. It doesn’t have to be grand, loud, or perfect. Sometimes, joy is in the smallest, most unexpected moments—and that’s okay.
Let’s talk about how we can find joy in the little things, even when it feels impossible.
Recognize the Power of Small Wins
We often focus on the big, life-changing moments of joy (a vacation, a promotion, a huge accomplishment). But if you’re living with chronic illness, those moments might not come as often—or they may feel out of reach. So, let’s shift our focus to the small wins. Did you manage to get out of bed without feeling like you were hit by a truck? That’s a win. Did you take a walk, even if it was just around the block? That’s joy.
The more we learn to celebrate these small victories, the more we’ll start to notice them.
Create a Gratitude Practice
I know, I know—gratitude can sound a little “fluffy” sometimes, but hear me out. Research has shown that gratitude can help shift your mindset and improve your overall well-being. The best part? It doesn’t have to be a big production. You can simply take a moment each day to think about one thing you’re thankful for. If you’re struggling, start small. Maybe it’s just the fact that you’ve made it through another day, or that you have a cozy blanket to snuggle in.
I created The One-Minute Gratitude Practice (That Won’t Drain Your Energy) to help you get started, and trust me, taking just a minute each day to recognize what’s good can shift your perspective.
Engage in Things That Bring You Peace
What makes you feel calm and content? Maybe it’s reading a book, crocheting, gardening, or simply sitting outside and breathing in the fresh air. Finding moments of peace is vital when living with chronic illness. These peaceful activities might not feel like “joy” in the traditional sense, but they can bring a quiet form of happiness that recharges your spirit.
Be Kind to Yourself
We can’t always control how we feel or the challenges we face, but we can control how we treat ourselves. It’s okay to feel down sometimes. It’s okay to have moments where joy feels far away. But please, don’t beat yourself up for it. Give yourself the grace to feel what you’re feeling. Joy doesn’t have to be constant, and you don’t need to “force” it. Simply let it come when it’s ready, and recognize the small sparks of happiness that sneak through.
Joy Is a Journey
At the end of the day, finding joy with chronic illness is a journey. Some days, it will be easier to spot than others, but it’s always there, even if it’s hiding behind the hardest days. Keep looking for it in the little things: a laugh with a friend, the taste of your favorite tea, the peace of a quiet afternoon.
So, let’s take it one step at a time. This spring, let’s commit to finding those little moments of joy—because they add up to something beautiful.
