THE FIBROMATES JOURNAL

by Irene Roth, Blog Editor/Writer

Each year, millions commit to resolutions or set goals, hoping to improve their lives. While the two terms are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct approaches to personal growth and achievement. Understanding the difference between resolutions and goals can help you choose the right strategy to turn aspirations into reality.

What Are Resolutions?

Resolutions are declarations of intent, often rooted in personal values or a desire for self-improvement. They are typically broad, aspirational statements such as “I will eat healthier,” “I will save money,” or “I will exercise more.” Resolutions focus on the end result and serve as a promise to oneself to make a change.

The strength of resolutions lies in their motivational power. They tap into your vision for a better future and inspire action. However, resolutions often fail because they lack specificity or a structured plan for implementation. For instance, a resolution like “I want to lose weight” might not provide clear steps or measurable progress, leading to frustration or abandonment.

What Are Goals?

Goals, on the other hand, are specific, actionable, and measurable objectives. Unlike resolutions, which are often abstract, goals focus on how to achieve a desired outcome. For example, instead of resolving to “save money,” a goal might be, “I will save $500 per month for the next six months by reducing dining expenses and creating a budget.”

The effectiveness of goals lies in their clarity. Goals provide a roadmap for progress, breaking a larger aspiration into smaller, achievable tasks. They often follow the SMART framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—making them more actionable and less overwhelming.

Here are some key differences between resolutions and goals.

1. Focus:
   Resolutions emphasize the what—the desired change or improvement. Goals emphasize the how—the steps needed to achieve that change.
2. Structure:
   Resolutions are often vague and lack a concrete plan, while goals are detailed, with a clear timeline and milestones.
3. Accountability:
   Resolutions rely on willpower and self-discipline, but goals encourage accountability through measurable progress and specific deadlines.
4. Flexibility:
   Resolutions can feel rigid; breaking them often feels like failure. Goals are more adaptable, allowing adjustments as circumstances evolve.

Why Goals Outperform Resolutions

The primary reason goals are more effective than resolutions is because they are action-oriented. While resolutions inspire, goals transform inspiration into tangible progress, goals encourage consistency, focus, and adaptability, increasing the likelihood of success.

For example, if your resolution is to “get fit,” it might feel overwhelming without direction. Setting goals like “attend the gym three times a week” or “run a 5K by April” provides actionable steps that build momentum over time.

Further, goals foster a growth mindset by celebrating incremental achievements. Completing smaller tasks builds confidence, reinforcing the belief that larger aspirations are attainable. Resolutions, by contrast, can feel discouraging if progress isn’t immediate.

Although goals tend to be more effective, resolutions still have value. They provide the vision and motivation that spark the journey toward self-improvement. Combining the two can maximize success.

Start with a resolution to identify your overarching aspiration. For example, “I want to live a healthier lifestyle.” Then, break this resolution into smaller, actionable goals such as:

• Drink eight glasses of water daily.
• Prepare home-cooked meals five days a week.
• Walk 10,000 steps per day.

By pairing the inspiration of a resolution with the structure of goals, you create a sustainable path to success.

While resolutions and goals share the common purpose of self-improvement, their differences are significant. Resolutions provide the vision, while goals supply the actionable steps. To achieve lasting change, focus on setting clear, measurable goals rooted in your resolutions. By blending motivation with strategy, you can turn aspirations into accomplishments, one step at a time.

by Irene Roth, Blog Editor/Writer

Happy New Year Everyone!

Many of us feel less than others because of our fibromyalgia. We feel slower and less able to live a life that’s fulfilling and meaningful.

Most people set resolutions at this time of year. As the clock strikes midnight, people are filled with hope and happiness. But is this really the way it is with fibromates?

For the first decade after I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, I always dreaded January 1^st. I believed that it was going to be the same old stuff again this year, pain, fatigue, sleepless nights, stress, and an uptick of my other comorbidities.

At the end of 2015, I had an aha moment while I was journalling. I wondered what if I changed my mindset towards getting ready for a brand-new year? What if instead of dreading the upcoming year because of all the hopelessness that I was feeling inside my heart, I reframed my thoughts?

Friends, that made a real difference for me in not only creating positive intentions for the new year but also having a happy and purposive year.

Instead of focusing on all the things I couldn’t do, I started focusing on what I can do, such as pace myself, start a gratitude practice, slow down so that I can enjoy things more, and especially to be self-compassionate and kind to myself.

The benefits of changing my mindset were quite immediate. I was able to enjoy the new year more and I no longer dreaded midnight on January 1^st. Instead, I started looking forward to it with anticipation and hope.

I started setting small, realistic goals, working within my abilities and comorbidities, forgiving myself if I didn’t complete goals that I set out to accomplish because I was having a bad day or week, and above all being self-compassionate towards myself. No longer did I push myself to do things that I knew would only make me feel worse and experience more pain.

Friends, we must remember that we’re not damaged individuals just because we have fibro. We don’t have to resolve to a minimalist life where we just do the minimum. Because when we do, our self-esteem and identity will be impacted.

Instead, we need to approach each year with determination that we can pursue our goals, we can live a life that’s purposive and meaningful, and we can do so in such a way that will give us more hope and resilience.

Fibromyalgia need not rob you of your true identity and self-worth. You can still set and complete goals. You just have to set realistic goals that you can comfortably complete, with space for those hard days when you may have to practice self-compassion and take the day off.

So why not sit down and set some goals for yourself? This month, I will discuss how you can set small, achievable goals. In the meantime, sit down and write down five things you’d like to achieve this year.

May your year be filled with happiness, love, purpose, and self-compassion!

Lots of Love!

by Irene Roth, Blog Editor/Writer

Creating simple pleasures in December can be a challenge, with all that’s going on. There are so many parties to go to, cooking to do, socializing to accommodate and much more. The good news is that we all have a choice to be tempted to move at the tempo of the culture or create a simpler and more peaceful vibe ourselves so that we can enjoy the holidays.

For those with fibromyalgia, December’s chill and holiday bustle can bring challenges, making it essential to create a cozy, relaxing retreat at home. A thoughtfully designed corner, filled with warmth and comfort, can provide fibromates with a sanctuary that soothes aches, reduces stress, and uplifts the spirit.

Here’s how to create a nurturing space that caters to the specific needs of a fibro warrior.

1. Choose the Perfect Spot

Selecting the right spot for your cozy corner is the first step. Ideally, this area should be away from household noise and distractions, perhaps by a window with natural light or in a quieter room that feels private. Consider an area near a window where you can catch a view of the outside. Natural light can have a calming effect and boost mood, even on cloudy days. If you’re short on space, a small nook, a corner in the living room, or a space in the bedroom can work well—anywhere that offers enough room to sit comfortably and unwind.

2. Add a Comfortable Chair or Cushions

Comfort is key when creating a fibro-friendly retreat. Choose a chair that offers good support for your back and legs, preferably one with soft cushioning. Oversized armchairs or reclining chairs are perfect for settling in, but a simple armchair with added cushions can work well, too. If a chair isn’t ideal for you, consider creating a floor space with large, supportive cushions that let you stretch out comfortably. Soft, thick fabrics like velvet or microfiber tend to be gentle on sensitive skin, so keep that in mind when selecting cushions or throws.

3. Use Warm, Soft Lighting

Lighting has a huge impact on ambiance, and softer lighting is ideal for a cozy corner. Avoid bright, harsh overhead lights, which can feel too stimulating, especially when you’re dealing with a fibro flare-up. Instead, go for gentle, warm-toned lighting, which creates a calming atmosphere. A small lamp with a dimmer switch can help you adjust the brightness as needed. String lights or battery-operated candles are also great for adding a cozy glow without overwhelming your senses.

4. Embrace Layers with Soft Textiles

To create the ultimate cozy space, layering with soft textiles is essential. Blankets and throws in cozy, touchable fabrics like fleece, cashmere, or cotton knit can provide both warmth and comfort. Having different textures available allows you to adjust based on your needs—heavier blankets for warmth or lighter ones for milder days. Don’t hesitate to add more than one blanket so you can adjust as needed. A weighted blanket, if you find it soothing, can offer an extra layer of comfort and security.

5. Surround Yourself with Calming Scents

Scent can have a powerful effect on mood and comfort, so consider adding a calming fragrance to your cozy corner. Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus are popular choices for relaxation and pain relief. You can use a small diffuser for a subtle aroma, or keep it simple with a candle in your favorite calming scent. Make sure to avoid overpowering scents, which can sometimes lead to sensory overload. The goal is to add just enough fragrance to enhance the calming vibe without overwhelming the senses.

6. Stock Your Space with Comfort Essentials

Personalize your cozy corner with items that bring comfort and help you relax. Keep a small basket nearby with your favorite books, journals, or a tablet loaded with calming music, audiobooks, or podcasts. You might also enjoy having a small table to hold a hot drink like herbal tea or hot cocoa, which can be both soothing and warming. Consider adding items that ease fibro symptoms, such as a massager, essential oils, or even a mindful coloring book. These items make it easy to unwind and shift into a state of relaxation whenever you’re in your space.

Creating a cozy, warm corner tailored for a fibro warrior is about building a space that brings comfort, calm, and relief. By carefully selecting soft textures, warm lighting, gentle heat, and items that inspire peace, you can transform even a small corner into a sanctuary that nurtures both body and soul. Whether you’re resting, reading, or simply being, this space can become a refuge that helps you face the cold days of December with warmth, comfort, and renewed energy.