So much of successful diabetes management comes down to two things: commitment and mindset.
Yesterday I offered the first of my top three tips for cultivating a healthy mindset and life with diabetes. My point? That by shifting some of the tired old beliefs we've been lugging around with us all these years we allow ourselves to make space for something better--and get out our own way.
What follows are my other top two tips for living a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life with (or without) diabetes.
NOTE:I come by these things honestly. After 21 years of life with diabetes, these are the things I know work. Embracing the tips and action steps has made all the difference for me--in the way I show up in the world--and the increased level of health and success I've had managing--and embracing--my diabetes and my L.I.F.E.
Ready to try? Here we go:
- Get Active & Create a Strong Support System!
It's a fact of L.I.F.E.--and diabetes management--that we increase our chance for success and sustained progress exponentially when we create and nurture a strong system of support for ourselves-and our diabetes.
One thing I know for sure is that a lack of support, encouragement, and connection to others has led to my most miserable-and loneliest-of days-and my unhealthiest results. And I've got to take responsibility for most of that misery and isolation-self-imposed as it may have been. We don't have to go it alone. Keep the following in mind:
- Systems don't develop over night. We've got to be proactive and seek them out. While our doctors may be medical experts we respect, they're not the kind of support system I'm referring to. We need people we can relate to. Folks who lead by example. Mentors and friends we admire and respect. And folks who respect us--enough to encourage us and also tell it like it is (even when our inner-rebel may not want to hear it)!
- There are encouragers and supporters to be found all around us when we humble ourselves enough to admit we could use some support-and ask for it. When we have the courage to put our diabetes-and ourselves-"out there." When we don't hide. When we risk moving out of our comfort zone.
AMYLIA'S ACTION CHALLENGE:
Is there someone out there in the diabetes online community that you admire but have been shy about reaching out to? Why not take the first step toward connecting with them today? What do you have to lose? Consider doing one of the following T.O.D.A.Y.: What you'll find is that diabetes-like life-rewards action. Make T.O.D.A.Y. the day you take that first small step to encourage your health and success-as a diabetic, I find the two inextricably linked. Do something today. It beats waiting around for others to anticipate your needs and wants...which leads to my final tip:
5 Health Problems Caused by Drinking Too Much Alcohol 
What Your Feet Say About Your Health 
Top 8 Low-Carb Mistakes 
5 Signs You May Have Hypoglycemia 
