"If someone judges you for taking a day off, they can take a hike."

Welcome to another exciting edition of our newsletter, where we blend a sprinkle of business wisdom with a dash of fun. Today, I’m diving into a topic that’s near and dear to my heart: Keeping a positive mindset while managing a chronic illness and pursuing big, audacious goals.

The ones that make you do a little happy dance when you think about them!

First things first, let’s talk about mindset. I know, I know, "mindset" gets tossed around a lot, but hear me out. When you’re dealing with a chronic illness, it’s easy to feel like you’re running a never-ending marathon up a steep hill. You might be tempted to hide in a corner and let self-defeating thoughts take over. But guess what? We’re not doing that here. We’re kicking those thoughts to the curb and embracing the power of positive thinking.

One key thing to remember is to give yourself grace. If your schedule needs to change because you're not feeling well, that's okay. Embrace the magic of scheduling with buffers. This means preparing in advance as much as possible. Have content ready to go, use schedulers like Social Bee, Tailwind, or even the wonderful VA to keep things running smoothly. Think of it as setting up a safety net for those days when brain fog or fatigue decides to pay a visit.

Speaking of those less-than-ideal days, allow yourself the time to heal and stay healthy. If someone judges you for taking a day off, they can take a hike. No one knows your body better than you do, so listen to it and treat it kindly. Remember, the hustle culture doesn’t apply to us chronic illness warriors. We have our own version of hustle, which is doing what we can within our means and staying upright the next day.

Now, let’s talk self-care. Oh, self-care, my lovely friend. Taking care of yourself isn't just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Picture this: you’re supposed to stay away from gluten, but that slice of bread is calling your name. I get it, but let’s step away and prioritize our health. Dairy giving you trouble? Back away from the ice cream. Feeling better is going to supercharge your mindset and help you stay on top of your game. Daily exercise, stretching, strength training—these aren’t just for fitness buffs. They're for us, too. It’s all about feeling good to do good.

Do you have a solid "why"? Something that keeps you going when the going gets tough? For many of us, it’s the dream of getting out of the 9 to 5 grind or leaving behind situations that no longer serve us. Keep that why front and center. Remind yourself daily that better days are ahead and that your hard work will pay off.

Before I sign off, don't forget to grab my Chronically Awesome Planner. It’s packed with tools and tips to help you manage your business like a pro, even when your chronic illness tries to slow you down. Trust me, you won't want to miss it.

Remember, you can absolutely achieve your goals, even with a chronic illness. Your planning might look different, but that’s what makes you uniquely wonderful. Keep focusing on what you can do and not what you can't. You've got this!

OTHER RESOURCES 

ABOUT SUZANNE PROKSA, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, HHP

I'm Suzanne Proksa. A SHRM-SCP and SPHR certified Human Resources and Business Strategist, IAWP Certified Wellness Coach, AADP certified Holistic Health Practitioner, fierce supporter of women, and autoimmune educator + advocate. My focus is supporting, coaching, and creating programs for women, people-focused organizations, and online businesses so they can positively impact their own lives and those of others.

In my time as an online strategist, I've helped thousands of women gain confidence, establish clarity in their businesses, get visible and drive audience growth, create simple strategies and automation to grow their businesses, crush their tech challenges, and start making sales. During my time in HR, I have launched and led multiple initiatives to enrich and improve company culture and the employee experience. I've had my hands in business nearly my entire life starting when I was a kid selling my creations in my neighborhood. My business Bliss Candles was a Featured Seller on Etsy, featured in the book “How to Make Money on Etsy,” and a community favorite - and also a trailblazer in online marketing for small business.

My work has been published and featured in the Huffington Post, Medium, Thrive Global, the Amazing Women of Influence Summit, and on my beloved podcasts.

I've been honored with nominations for the MISHRM Human Resources Lifetime Achievement Award, the HR Unite! Inspire Award, and the HR Unite! TA Trailblazer Award.

When I'm not loving on my business or being the best HR leader I can be -- I'm lifting up people however I can, strength training, studying all things women's health, geeking out over technology, attending networking events, and working/living in the beautiful oasis I've built at home.

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