It’s challenging to sort through the “shoulds” and “should-nots” of fibromyalgia. I know I’m not alone in this. Because the condition is so unpredictable, all we can really control is the action of doing the “next right thing” for our health.

All of life is uncertain and unpredictable; those of us in the chronic illness community know that. It’s easy to get lost in the bigger picture instead of focusing on the current moment. Try not to worry about the future. I know that’s hard, but that’s the way I’ve chosen to live — in the moment. Life becomes much less stressful that way.

What are some of those next right things? Yours are unique, but I’ll share some of mine: 

1. Go for a five-minute walk
2. Take my medications
3. Make an appointment
4. Read a book chapter
5. Spend time in prayer or meditation
6. Enjoy a cup of coffee
7. Make my bed
8. Listen to uplifting music
9. Stretch my muscles
10. Take my supplements
11. Drink water
12. Update my ICE Contact app
13. Choose a healthcare proxy
14. Make a will
15. Call a friend I haven’t talked to in a while

I think you get the point. Just choose one thing and do that. If we dwell on all the things we need to do, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, so let’s just focus on doing the next right thing. Maybe it’s filling your pill container or picking up a prescription. Perhaps it’s taking a bath with Epsom salts and lavender essential oil. Whatever self-care is preferable, do that.

Some other ideas:

1. Nap
2. Write in a journal
3. Clean an area with a five-minute timer
4. Turn off mobile devices
5. Visit a salon
6. Have groceries delivered
7. Set a time limit for discussions to avoid social exhaustion
8. Relax with deep breathing
9. Make a protein shake

What are some of the next right things that you can think of? Do you get overwhelmed thinking of ALL the things you need to do? Try doing the next right thing and see what a difference it can make.

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Note: Fibromyalgia News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Fibromyalgia News Today, or its parent company, BioNews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to fibromyalgia.