We tend to find more of what we focus on. When life with IBD is tough that can be all that we focus on. This is understandable.

If you are sick and dealing with a flare or painful symptoms of your IBD it is difficult to “stay positive and hope for the best”. I remember during my first flare that all I could do to find some relief was to curl up into a fetal position on the floor and not move.

That was a difficult time to see the good in that moment. Luckily, I was able to see that moment for what it was, and nothing worse.

I basically did my best to turn my brain off to help avoid any excessive negative thoughts. I knew things were tough – why dwell or focus more on that fact?

What is important is to practice seeing some good in these difficult moments (as best as you can with your capabilities and resources). We know that not every moment in life is blissful. Setbacks are part of life.

However, it is the practice of looking for good that is key here.

Spend some time practicing this habit. Play around with different ways that might help you see the good in these moments.

Start with something easy like “it’s good that I have eyes to read this book” or “the good thing about right now is that I’m alive and breathing”.

Move up to “it’s a good thing that I’m feeling down right now because that means that I am human, want to feel better, and care about myself and my health”

Then you can build up to ideas like “it’s good that I have IBD because __________________________”

Try this:

Finish this sentence, “One good thing about this moment is____________________________.” Try to practice this throughout the day for the next 3-7 days.