A Time to Reflect: A Letter to You, From You
As one year is ending and a new one is beginning, set aside some time to reflect. Using the following letter as a template, write a letter to yourself, from yourself. Be kind and caring towards yourself. You deserve it!
Dear Friend,
As the year winds down, let’s pause for a moment to reflect—not just on the challenges faced, but on the victories, lessons, and everything in between. Managing a chronic lung condition is no small feat. It requires persistence, patience, and a willingness to adapt. You’ve made it through another year, and that alone is worth celebrating.
What Went Well?
Think back to the moments that made you feel proud of yourself. Did you try a new exercise routine, stick to a treatment plan, or find joy in an unexpected place? Maybe you built a new habit, like using your inhaler more consistently or finding time to rest when your body asked for it. Every small step counts in chronic disease management. Those moments of effort, no matter how small they seemed, have brought you closer to your goals. Write those down. Let yourself feel good about them—they’re proof of your resilience.
What Didn’t Go as Planned?
It’s okay to acknowledge the tough spots. Maybe some days felt overwhelming, or your condition threw a curveball that derailed your plans. Perhaps goals you set didn’t materialize the way you’d hoped. But here’s the thing: those experiences aren’t failures—they’re feedback. What can they teach you? Was it a matter of needing more support, different tools, or maybe just more time? Reflecting on these moments with kindness can help you recalibrate for the year ahead.
What Did You Learn About Yourself?
Living with a chronic condition often reveals your inner strength and resourcefulness. What did this year teach you about who you are? Did you discover new ways to manage stress, connect with loved ones, or adapt to unexpected challenges? Perhaps you learned that you’re capable of more than you imagined—or that it’s okay to ask for help. Both are equally valuable lessons.
Looking Ahead: Your Goals for the New Year
As you think about 2025, what changes would you like to make? Maybe it’s focusing on small, achievable goals: Adding a 5-minute daily breathing exercise to your routine. Attending a class (like Couch to Cardio!) to stay active. Learning more about your condition so you can advocate for yourself with confidence. It’s also okay to let go of goals that no longer serve you. What matters is creating a plan that feels right for where you are now.
The Importance of Compassion
Through it all, be gentle with yourself. Managing a chronic condition isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Every day you show up for yourself is a step in the right direction. So, as you reflect on this year and set your sights on the next, remember this: you’re doing the best you can, and that’s more than enough.
Here’s to another year of growth, learning, and living your best lung life.
With care,
The Poplar Team