Wellness & Lifestyle

This is so important to do sometimes. There are a lot of reasons why we forget to clear out the clutter periodically. I think that sometimes we fall subject to the fallacy that something we've invested a lot of time and energy in but isn't adding value to our lives will start doing so if we just keep at it a little bit longer, and a little bit longer. I also think that, in the U.S. at least, we tend to carry a deeply ingrained belief that quitting is inherently bad — and clearing out that clutter can at times feel like quitting. Letting go of something you’ve invested time, energy, or resources into can feel wasteful—as if the only acceptable option is to push through no matter what. We see this reinforced in messaging and marketing at times too, reinforcing the idea (Nike’s “Just Do It” being a classic example).

And yes—there are absolutely times when pushing ourselves matters, when stepping away wouldn’t serve us. But there are also times when not quitting, or not clearing out the clutter, is what causes harm.

That constant pressure to keep going can lead us to normalize chaos and clutter—both mental and physical—leaving little room for ourselves. I feel like this is especially true in roles like patient advocacy, where so many of us are deeply passionate and driven to support others, often at the expense of our own well-being.

What often gets overlooked is how much more we’re capable of when we allow ourselves space—mentally and physically. That the space isn’t something that always needs to be filled. In fact, protecting it can strengthen our ability to function, to process difficult emotions, and to feel more grounded and present in both our personal and professional lives.

Good advice for clients, patients and advocates alike!

This is an awesome!

Thank you for sharing!

I am very familiar with PULSE but haven't considered going through them. I'll check into it. Thanks!

Nancy, this is cool!!! Thanks so much for sharing!

Do you interact with the folks at PULSE? I wonder if you might share some common ground.