Are there days when you question whether you’ve made any progress in your cancer treatment? Or maybe you’re just trying to find some sense of purpose in the day ahead? Know this: you’re not alone. And, you are making progress—no matter how small it may seem.
What Counts as Progress?
Your treatment doesn’t have to be marked by large strides to be considered successful. There are plenty of “small” successes that happen daily — that are no less important than larger ones. Here are a few examples:
• Getting out of bed without resting first (even if it’s just to go to the bathroom).
• Tasting real food again.
• Calling a friend, having a conversation, and enjoying it.
• Taking an additional two steps further than you did the day before—or more.
What Makes the Above Examples Important?
These small advances are critical because they allow you to connect with parts of yourself that have been absent for a while. For example:
• Moving your legs out of bed for the first time (or second) is important because it allows you to use your body again—even if it’s just a little. That’s a connection to your physical self.
• Writing down what you eat is important because it gives you control over your food intake. As you regain control of your eating habits, you’ll begin to regain confidence in your ability to make healthy choices — that’s a connection to your mental well-being.
• Taking an additional two steps around the block is important because it demonstrates that your body is capable of performing tasks — even if those tasks are very small. That’s a connection to your overall health.
Why Should We Celebrate Small Advances?
We should celebrate small advances because they represent a significant amount of effort. For example, a person recovering from cancer has to overcome incredible amounts of fatigue, discomfort, and anxiety to accomplish the smallest of tasks — like taking an additional two steps around the block. Each of those steps represents a moment of courage and resilience — qualities that are essential to overcoming a serious illness.
The Importance of Defining Victory in a Way That Works for You
Victory doesn’t have to mean hitting a major milestone to be celebrated. You can define victory in whatever way works best for you — whether that means completing a task that was difficult for you, or simply getting through the day.
Here are some reasons why you shouldn’t put too much emphasis on creating a “scorecard” to measure your success:
• You’re not competing with anyone else. You’re only competing with yourself — so there’s no need to compare yourself to others.
• You don’t have to do anything a certain way. Your recovery journey is unique to you — so you don’t have to follow someone else’s roadmap to success.
What Can I Do Today To Show Myself That I’m Making Progress?
There are countless things you can do today to demonstrate to yourself that you’re making progress. Here are a few ideas:
• Write down three things you accomplished today. This can help you recognize the accomplishments you’ve made — no matter how small they may be.
• Take an additional five minutes longer to complete a task. This can help you build endurance and demonstrate to yourself that you’re able to handle a greater workload.
• Schedule a time to talk to a friend or loved one today. This can help you build social connections — a vital component of overall health and wellness.
• Put on a pair of comfortable clothes and take a ten-minute walk outside. This can help you build momentum towards becoming more active and building a healthier relationship with exercise.
How Can I Stay Encouraged During Challenging Days?
It’s easy to become discouraged when you’re dealing with a serious illness like cancer. But there are many things you can do to encourage yourself and maintain a positive outlook.
Here are a few tips:
• Set realistic goals for yourself. Setting unrealistic expectations can lead to feelings of disappointment and frustration. Instead, set specific and achievable goals for yourself that align with your current abilities.
• Focus on the present moment. Rather than worrying about what the future holds, try to focus on what you can do right now to improve your situation.
• Practice gratitude. Take time each day to reflect on the things you’re thankful for—no matter how small they may seem. Practicing gratitude can help you cultivate a more optimistic outlook.
• Reach out for support. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or healthcare provider, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Having a strong support system can make all the difference in maintaining a positive attitude during challenging times.
What Are Some Things I Can Do to Honor My Progress?
Honor your progress by acknowledging your achievements and celebrating the small victories you experience each day. Here are a few ways you can do this:
• Keep a journal. Writing down your accomplishments and reflecting on your progress can help you develop a deeper appreciation for your successes.
• Share your experiences with friends and family. Sharing your experiences with others can help you feel more connected and supported as you continue to navigate the challenges associated with your diagnosis.
• Allow yourself to feel proud of your accomplishments. Acknowledge that your hard work and dedication are worth recognizing and celebrating.
Conclusion
As you continue on your journey, remember that your progress is being measured in inches — not miles. So, don’t compare yourself to others. Compare yourself to the version of you from yesterday. Celebrate your small victories and acknowledge your progress along the way.
