How to Be the Architect of Your Own Life

When we are born, we are given gifts that help us navigate our lives. As we get older, we finally chisel those gifts so we can have a better experience living it.

Why do bad things happen? They happen due to unforeseen circumstances and the consequences of not living how we should. This doesn't mean we should beat ourselves up about the choices we made and how we got here.

How can you make living with COPD better?

Only you can answer that question. I personally take one day at a time and cut out all the emotional triggers that hold me back. I am learning how to overcome my fear of isolation and doing day-to-day activities.

Know your limitations. It's really hard sometimes because I'm not always sure I can cope. I am, however, aware of my limitations and know how far I can push myself. These are important skills to learn and finding ways to use the tools we are given really helps.

How do you use the tools you are given?

Each person is given a blank canvas to work on and you need to find out how to fill it. Knowing how your body works and how much it can take is vital. Knowing what you need to live a positive and motivated life is also important. We are all allowed to make mistakes, it's what makes us human.

Exercise

Exercising is part of most peoples day to day routine, but for people who suffer from COPD, it's an essential part of their day-to-day life. Make a conscious effort to keep your mind and body strong. Exercise in any form helps do that.

Nutrition

We are constantly being told about healthy eating habits. It's not always easy to do for many people suffering from COPD. This especially applies to people living on their own. Making healthy choices can be difficult when you're not feeling 100% well. Asking for help from family members or friends can help with this problem. Most of us have people in our lives who want to help if only you ask them.

Medication

Take your prescribed medication daily. It is quite easy to ignore taking our medication when we seem to be feeling good. I personally don't like taking tablets, but I know that the only way my body will cope is by giving it the support it needs.

Positive thoughts

Feed your mind with positive thoughts. Having a chronic illness can take its toll on your mental wellbeing. Finding ways to help keep our minds active and positive is a very important way of ensuring that we remain motivated.

Empower yourself

Not everything in our lives is within our control. We just have to make sure we understand the implications of not taking care of ourselves. Be the architect that builds a strong foundation for our lives to make sense.

My journey

Having COPD has taught me never to take life for granted. I am responsible for how I live my life. I am the most important person in my life, and I need to share that with all the people I love and who love me.

Editor's Note: We are heartbroken to share that Liana passed away in November of 2021. She is deeply missed but her encouragement and positivity live on through her articles. Thank you for everything, Liana.