Living with a disability is hard by any means, but it’s not a sentence to a life of misery.
According to the CDC, 1 in every 4 Americans is disabled. Most of these people are not only surviving but living full, rewarding lives. With some effort and the right support system, disabled people can enjoy life to the fullest.
1. Don’t give up on your passions
Life is not worth living if you can’t do the things you love. Unfortunately, people who have gotten disabled later in life can get discouraged and give up on their dreams. Having a disability might mean that you have to find new ways to do what you love, but you can’t give up on them.
For instance, if swimming is your thing, you can learn a new swimming technique. People who have lost their sight can still follow their passion for singing and dancing by learning alternative ways to do them.
You must also keep working towards your goals and earn a living. This could mean finding a way to work from home or doing an online course that will give you more skills to make money.
The bottom line is, there is more than one way to do something, and you can find it if you look hard enough. Better yet, you can learn to do new things and broaden your horizons.
2. Improve your living conditions
Feeling independent is one of the biggest desires disabled people have. Nobody likes depending on other people for every little thing. Improving the house to meet the physical needs of the owner is a great way to give them that independence.
Your home must also be a place where you enjoy being yourself and feel happy. Improve the living conditions by installing rails, wheelchair ramp, and some interior décor to make the house more airy and spacious.
Also, learn the different disability insurance types and ensure you are covered in the areas you need most.
For instance, are you best covered under the Long-Term disability insurance, Social Security disability insurance, Short-Term disability insurance, or disability insurance categorized by total disability? Knowing where you are covered best gives you the freedom to plan your finances better, and live a full life.
| Read also: Key Power Tips On How To Cope With A Disability Better After An Injury |
People living with a disability are at risk of isolation, especially if they feel insecure about their situation.
However, staying social and spending time with friends and family is one of the top ways to enjoy life. Since human beings are social, isolation can lead to depression and poor health.
If it’s possible, make an effort at least twice a week to do something that you love. Go to a dance class, take part in art, go to the salon, and socialize with other people.
You can also invite people over for dinner a few times if you don’t feel like going out. The idea is always to challenge yourself to get out of your comfort zone and meet new people.
4. Go outside more
Your house may be a haven of tranquility and peace, but it can’t compare to going outside.
There is something about breathing in some fresh air and soaking in some sun that is just rejuvenating. The outside atmosphere will improve your overall well-being, lift your moods, and clear up your brain. You can start by going outside your yard for an hour every day.
Gradually challenge yourself to go to parks, animal shelters, and even places where kids play. If you can’t get out and about on your own, enlist the help of a friend who can accompany you for these outdoor excursions.
5. Make a difference
Do you feel sorry for yourself? Some wish they would be able to do this and that like whole-bodied persons. Getting out of your head to help someone else is one of the best ways to get over a pity party.
Maybe there is that one cause you have always been passionate about- it’s time to do something about it. You can try to change lives one person at a time instead of isolating yourself in the house.
Some people knit warm sweaters and blankets for the homeless while others go out and spend time with lonely older adults in society. By taking the time to make a difference in other people’s lives, you learn to appreciate your situation and enjoy life.
Feeling good and enjoying life may not be the first things that come up when you wake up as a disabled person.
However, you can make a deliberate decision to enjoy life no matter what life throws at you. Taking good care of yourself every single day will also go a long way.
If looking good is what floats your boat, go ahead, and spend some money on yourself. Eat delicious meals, follow your dreams, and never let anyone make you feel like a lesser person.
About The Author:
Peter MacCallister is a small business owner and blogger, he resides in Scotland and likes to write about up and coming entrepreneurial topics. You’ll likely find Peter in the comments section of any major business publication sparking debate and trying to keep things interesting!
