Comparison and Invisible Conditions
Comparing oneself to others can be a difficult and emotional challenge when facing long-term illnesses.
It's important to remember that everyone's journey is unique and that comparing oneself to others can lead to negative feelings such as jealousy, self-doubt, and low self-esteem. It's important to focus on your own progress and growth, rather than constantly comparing yourself to others. Whether that is making it out of bed, retraining yourself to walk again, or making a meal. I know how much of a challenge it can be especially when you receive reminders of what life was like a few years ago. There were so many hobbies I took for granted, but also the simple things like walking out of my house. My activities became trips to A&E and fighting for treatment from Neurology.
Instead, now I try to focus on my own personal goals and accomplishments, and celebrate successes no matter how small they may seem.It's no surprise I am a coffee-lover, a simple trip to a nearby coffee shop with a book can do wonders for me. Taking pictures of the moon from my window keeps the dust off my camera.
I even unfollowed a lot of accounts around travelling and fitness as they were reminders of what I was unable to do. Watching people carry out hobbies I once enjoyed became a huge trigger. So instead of fighting that feeling I eventually allowed myself to mourn my identity.
And with all of this, there was a lack of support. So try and surround yourself with supportive people, and consider seeking professional help or joining a support group for individuals facing similar challenges. I know a lot of people didn't get what I was experiencing, it wasn't talked about much.
Remember, everyone has their own journey, and it's important to focus on your own progress rather than comparing yourself to other, as I tell myself every other day.