Defining a Positive Outlook
People who deal with chronic illnesses are often told by well-meaning others to “Cheer up and look at the bright side!” or they're told that adopting a sunny and positive attitude is imperative to their health. While their advice isn't completely misguided, those with chronic illnesses sometimes feel as if they are being asked to hide their feelings and keep a smile on their face. The truth is that dealing with a chronic illness is a balance — a balance between being proactive and optimistic while still allowing yourself the luxury of feeling angry, tired, frustrated, or anxious from time to time. You don't have to be a hero.
Having said that, a positive outlook can go a long way. Learning to accept change with a sense of hope will be a tremendous asset to you. The connection between mind and body is well established. A positive outlook has many health benefits, including fewer illnesses and reduced stress.
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Flexibility is one of the most important tools in your MS toolbox. Since your symptoms may vary from day to day or month to month, being willing and able to change direction during the day will help you manage. Moving a lunch date to an air conditioned restaurant, rescheduling an outing for another day, even adopting a more flexible work schedule are examples of how you can build flexibility into your life.
One thing you will hear quite a bit on your journey to acceptance is “Don't focus on what you can't do, focus on what you can do.” This is a good way to define a positive outlook; it's a glass-half-full strategy and is meant to help you focus on what is possible.
