As someone diagnosed with autism, an anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and chronic pain, here's the deal:
Being diagnosed as autistic years ago is hardly one of the interesting things about me. These days, I embrace my awkwardness, confront my challenges head-on, and remember to be patient yet persistent with myself. I carry it more as a badge of honour while at the same time not letting myself be defined by singular labels. 💫
Anxiety disorder? Check. Anxiety may knock at my door, seeking to sow seeds of doubt and fear. Yet, in the face of adversity, I try to stand tall. I won’t allow myself to cower in the shadows of my worries but rather march forward with courage and conviction. 🌱
OCD? Oh, yes. Every time I feel the tendrils of an unhealthy habit creeping in, I channel my inner strength to dismantle and nip it. 🌟
Chronic pain? It's been a constant companion since childhood, growing more pronounced with time. The last three years were particularly painful. Yet, I refuse to let it define me, and I show up as much as humanly possible. With mindful self-care and a commitment to holistic wellness, I grit my teeth, take my drugs, and get out into the world and experience life as much as I can. 💫
Boundaries are absolutely essential for self-care. But let's not confuse them with excuses. 💪
I cultivate as much resilience as I can. I try not to use the cards I've been dealt in life as a shield and contribute what I can to those around me and the communities I am part of, which have helped hold me up over the years. 💥
Here are a few things that have helped me to build agency and resilience on my journey:
We may not get to choose many of the cards we've been dealt with, but we do get to choose how we play them. Build agency and resilience, and don't let anyone take away or diminish it; reframe your point of view as often as you can. I promise it's worth it. 🚀