The Little Engine That Could

Today's prompt is:  When thinking about stigma, awareness, the healthcare system, and other big picture ideas – it’s easy to become overwhelmed. When we feel burned out, doubts creep in and we start thinking, “Maybe I can’t do this.” ... Sometimes we worry we aren’t making enough of a difference. We’re perfectionists and over-achievers – and that’s ok. Because – guess what? You are making a difference and doing great things – no matter how small they may seem at times. Today’s post is about turning our doubts around – turn our “I can’t” into “I can.”

The challenge is to write a list post with 10-15 lines that start each with “I think I can…” Then, write 5 lines at the end that start with "I know I can..."

This challenge was more difficult than I expected, and I'm not really sure why. But, here we go...

I think I can write a book.

I think I can read more frequently.
I think I can help end the stigma of Migraine disease and Invisible Illness.
I think I can begin (and maintain) an exercise routine, starting with walking more.
I think I can get back to cooking more with (and for) my husband.
I think I can help plan an amazing wedding for my sister.
I think I can get my chronic migraines under some level of control.
I think I can make sure people know how much they mean to me.
I think I can make a difference in someone's life.
I think I can set smaller milestones toward meeting larger goals.
I think I can feel less guilty when I choose to take care of myself, even if that means saying "no" or canceling plans with others.
I think I can keep a cleaner house (apartment), and be okay if sometimes I'm unable to.
I think I can can let go of things that have weighed me down in the past.
I think I can continue making small changes to improve my quality of life.
I think I can live a full and meaningful life, despite having chronic pain (I'm working hard on knowing this, rather than just thinking it).

I know I can continue to be an educated patient, and share what I learn with others.
I know I can be a loving and supportive wife.
I know I can love my family.
I know I can lend an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on.
I know I can keep putting one foot in front of the other.


This post was written as part of the National Health Blog Posting Month (NHBPM).