The importance of celebrating small wins in life with vasculitis
Recognizing baby steps is a way to honor ourselves and our bodies
What is it with us humans? It is a curious phenomenon that we generally deem situations, interactions, gifts, successes, or help from others as valuable only if they’re epic — dismissing the baby steps, small successes, and brief connections as if they’re not substantial enough to warrant celebration.
Sometimes we’re so busy looking for a big “aha!” moment or a huge change that we forget to recognize the baby steps. For those of us with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV), baby steps can get us across the room on a day when we’re stiff or tired from being up all night with loved ones. Maybe we won’t get there as fast as we would with giant steps, but this way, we’re guaranteed to take in a whole lot of life. And we will get there.
An article published last year by the Harvard Division of Continuing Education notes that there are many benefits to celebrating small wins, such as improved mood, confidence, and focus.
That’s not to say we should pretend to be doing well or push ourselves to do more when we don’t feel good. For the most part, our bodies make the rules. But it’s valuable to take note of the good days.
I think it can take adults more time to develop this skill of honoring baby steps. But to me, not doing so dishonors our body and how hard we work to deal with our disease.
We learn what works for our body, and when we find strategies that help with symptoms like fatigue, we celebrate. I thought I’d share some examples of what recognizing and celebrating baby steps can look like in life with vasculitis:
Small successes: Today I had an extra hour of “on time” when my medication was working, which I capitalized on by making a surprise lunch for the person I love instead of watching TV. I made the most of my time, even with malaise tugging at me.
Brief connections: Today I called a person whom I used to see in my support group every week. It wasn’t easy; I kept telling myself I didn’t have the time or energy to make a call. It turns out I did. It’s only through trial and error that I can learn my limits. Although I’ve been feeling somewhat isolated and overwhelmed recently, this call reminded me that I’m not alone. A brief connection is still a connection, and it’s good for my soul.
Redefining wins: Today I was able to hammer some nails into the fence that my wife is making. I’m glad I was able to participate in a home project. In the past, I never would’ve viewed this as a win — only a loss — because I used to do half of the work, not just a little bit. But that is a cruel voice that does not honor the impact of vasculitis or recognize effort. Instead, I am learning to redefine wins — and it feels good.
Note: ANCA Vasculitis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of ANCA Vasculitis News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to ANCA vasculitis.
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