Dear Cancer, How much time do I have left?
FLORA GABTONY (Flourishing Flora) Nwachinemere 1 of Ebenile
Ethical Leadership Strategist??Business/Professional Ethics Facilitator??Leadership Coach??Teacher of Teachers??Building GAPEthics & CharacteRoom Africa. I show Business Leaders that being Ethical is equally profitable.
In the wake of a cancer diagnosis, one question on patients' lips is, "How long do I have left?"
Heart-breaking but a fundamental question of time!
I have thought about this question, but something has prevented me from asking either my doctors or ME.
That thing is my #Mind.
My mind has refused to associate ‘terminal’ with cancer, so I go about my life with Hope.
I may die with Cancer but not of Cancer - There is a difference.
A cancer diagnosis can be a life-changing event, and it can be challenging to process the news and the emotions that come with it. While it's natural to want to know the answer to this question, "How long do I have left?" it's important to remember that there is no set timeline for cancer.
Instead of focusing on my time, I shifted my mind towards hope and healing. I trained my mind to focus on the positive aspects of life and develop a more optimistic outlook.
To achieve this, I practice these six things and more:
Express Gratitude: I take time each day to reflect on the things I am grateful for can help shift my focus towards the positive aspects of life. I either write (those on my WhatsApp status will tell you) or call someone (my mum especially) to share something little as - swallowing with ease. I appreciate the small joys, embrace moments of laughter, and engage in activities that bring me peace and contentment.?
The more I am grateful for every little win, I am hopeful for more wins.
Reframe negative thoughts: It is natural to have negative thoughts, but I reframe them in a more positive light. For example, if my mind starts to worry about inconsistencies in doctors' reports, I redirect my thoughts to how blessed I am to have access to medical care. Some cancer patients can’t access medical care for one reason or another.
If only worry could solve our problems!
Focus on the present moment: Rather than worrying about the future or dwelling on the past, I focus on the present moment. Living in the moment helps me to reduce anxiety and increase feelings of contentment and peace. By embracing the present, I find solace and fulfilment regardless of the time ahead. My moment is usually work-time.?
Yes, Work! I enjoy working!?
Connect with others: Connecting with people here or on other platforms, even those with similar experiences, provides me with a sense of community and support. The usual ‘Flora’ likes her space, but with cancer, I chose to share my journey online. It was a difficult decision, but I gave it a shot when I thought about the positive effect of connection and support from and for others. Sharing experiences, listening to other's stories, and connecting with people who understand my journey fosters a sense of hope and healing.
Thinking of how to support others distracts me from the main issue - Cancer!
Engage in self-care: Taking care of my physical and emotional well-being helps me feel better and improve my outlook. I have been exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, dancing to my Nija Old hits (Flavour is my guy) and engaging in relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing.?
10,000 steps are my daily goal!
Guess what! - I did 13,000+ steps on May 20th, 2023.
领英推荐
Get busy: Getting busy allows me to shift my focus away from the constant worry about the future and the limited time I may perceive. Engaging in activities that capture my attention and interest provides the much-needed distraction, offering respite from anxious thoughts and fully immersing myself in the present moment. While getting busy won't eliminate the uncertainty surrounding my health, it helps me to shift my perspective, embrace hope, and focus on the possibilities of healing.
I embrace each day's opportunities and let my actions guide me towards a future filled with hope and possibilities!
Healing is a personal journey, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. While it is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs, mind healing can be a helpful tool in supporting your overall well-being and creating a more positive outlook on life. With a focus on hope and healing, we (cancer warriors) can find joy and contentment in the present moment and create a brighter future for ourselves.
Dear Warrior,
Focus less on ‘how much time you have to live’
Focus more on ‘how well and fulfilled you need to live’.
Just Live in the Moment!
I am FLORA GABTONY (Flourishing Flora); follow for more on #hopeandhealing, #resiliencebuilding
Teacher at Ogun SUBEB/Teach For Nigeria Alumni.Co-Founder of Twelve initiative. Determined to Support and Encourage every learner in attaining an Excellent Education.
1 年Beautiful Flora ??
Education Consultant, Maxpot
1 年Almost surreal, but all so positive. No rage, rage but positive engagement. We have so much to gain from your strength. Thank you for sharing so sincerely, so graciously
Entrepreneur
1 年Be strong, be alive. Enjoy your life
Managing Consultant at Sages & Sribes Consultants
1 年Keep flourishing in the grace and goodness of God Almighty. He is the God of time and season. In Christ Jesus, you will fulfil your length of days and destiny. By His stripes cancer is defeated ?? ??
CounsellorAkinnuoye
1 年Well said. The #mind is the key