Wow, it’s been awhile.

I’ve sort of dropped off the face of the Earth at Team Born This Way Foundation – mainly, due to health. My health has demanded more and more of my time and routine lately due to autoimmune disease that has gone undiagnosed for years as a result of overlapping symptoms caused by my other neurological diagnoses – to the point of said autoimmune disease causing additional secondary neurological issues of its own.  

Since my self-care has demanded so much of my time, it’s hard to feel motivated to take care of myself. When most people think of self-care, they probably think of bubble baths and meditation. For me, much of my self-care consists of physical therapy, medication, flushing the tubes that do the job of organs that no longer function properly, and forcing myself to go to the hospital when all else fails. As much as I want my self-care to consist of nothing but fun and relaxing things, I realize that in order to exist in the world as the best version of myself, I don’t always have that luxury. But that doesn’t mean I can’t have both to stay as physically and mentally healthy as possible.

I’ve compiled this list of some #BeKind21 activities that I need in my own life to stay happy and healthy, and I hope it can inspire you, too. And if you haven’t already, go here to pledge to be a part of #BeKind21 today.

*Disclaimer: My list is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

1. If you take medication, take it on time; set an alarm so you don’t nap through when you’re supposed to take them.
2. Take advantage of good days and be as spontaneous as you can.
3. Listen to some music and sing like no one is listening.
4. Better yet, sing like people are listening. Post that cover on Tik Tok, if you want.
5. Take a stroll around the block and stop if you need to take breaks. Vitamin D feels good and is good for you.
6. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself, because no one knows you better than you.
7. Spend time with your favorite people.
8. Have gratitude, but validate your feelings.
9. Find a good book to get lost in.
10. Get inspired by what you read and start writing again.
11. Never stop being curious and always foster your love of learning.
12. Don’t be too hard on yourself. You’re only doing the best you can.
13. Eat a good meal, or many good meals.
14. Don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself.
15. Pay for someone’s coffee with that Starbucks card (thanks, Maya).
16. Don’t reschedule that appointment if you aren’t too sick. It can take weeks to get another one.
17. Don’t be afraid to dream.
18. Remember that things get better. 
19. Remember your worth.
20. Reach out to old friends.
21. Whenever you’re able, reply to those emails and start joining those team meetings again. They’ll love to have you.