“Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.” – Winston Churchill

As each New Year rolls around, I’m reminded of the opportunities for change and growth in my life. Aside from the standard resolutions many of us tend to make (and often break) such as “I’m going to eat healthier, get more exercise, go to sleep earlier, quit smoking, etc.” what’s helped me most is to focus more on changing the way I think and cope when dealing with what life’s thrown at me, as in my case, a life with Parkinson's.

For 2025, my goal is to not let negative thoughts and fears overtake me. I’m not going to let myself worry more than I have to.

Navigating the Emotional Landscape

In the 17 years since being diagnosed with Parkinson’s, I’ve often grappled with anxiety and uncertainty about the future. The fear of what’s to come can be overwhelming and I've often asked myself questions like “What if my symptoms worsen?” or “What if I lose my independence?”, even during periods when I felt my symptoms were relatively stable.

I've found that this constant worry can cast a pretty dark shadow on the hope and positivity I strive to cultivate. It’s easy to allow fear to take the wheel, steering us away from enjoying the present moment.

Letting Go of Fear

This New Year, I’m committed to letting go of fears about things that haven’t yet happened. Life with Parkinson’s is unpredictable, and I know it doesn’t come with any guarantees. I’ve learned the importance of rolling with the punches, and when real challenges arise, that’s when I’ll summon my strength to rise to the occasion and keep moving forward.

I’ve come to realize that fear doesn’t serve me well in this journey. Instead, I’ll focus on my resilience and the things I still cherish—my relationships, my passions, and the small joys and moments that each day brings.

Building Connections and Community

I also plan on continuing to connect with others navigating their own Parkinson’s journeys. I believe there’s incredible power in sharing our experiences and supporting one another. If you’re also looking to connect with others or seek support, I encourage you to reach out. There are many great people and resources available, so you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Together, let’s embrace 2025 with a renewed mindset, focusing on strength, community, and the moments that make life beautiful, despite the challenges we face.