When you think about your healing journey, do you ever feel like you’re wandering through a dense forest? That’s how it often feels for me. It’s a constant trek with twists and turns, but sometimes you find a patch of sunlight breaking through. It is easy to forget, but it’s often the small moments of progress or “breadcrumbs” that lead us out.

The Power of Small Victories on Your Healing Journey

When dealing with chronic illness, it’s easy to focus on setbacks or pain, and forget how far we’ve come. Our healing journey can be full of tiny, seemingly insignificant moments that often get overshadowed by our struggles. But these small victories matter. They remind us that healing is more than just the big changes—it’s in the small, everyday wins.

For example, when my Hashimoto’s flared up recently, I was reminded how tough it can be to deal with constant discomfort. After years of feeling better, I was hit with a reminder of how challenging it can be. I kept comparing myself to the past—when I had more energy, felt happier, and had fewer symptoms. While it’s important to track symptoms, focusing only on the negative can drown out the progress we’ve made. Even on tough days, we’re still healing.

Recognizing your Healing “Breadcrumbs”

It can be disheartening when we focus solely on our pain and setbacks. The small, positive moments—these “breadcrumbs”—are what guide us toward healing. They show us that the healing journey is not always about big gestures. It’s often the small, consistent acts of self-care or positive mental moments that nurture our body and soul. These breadcrumbs can look like taking time for yourself or simply noticing how much you’ve done today. Here are a few of my own “breadcrumbs”:

Examples of Healing Journey “Breadcrumbs”:

• Celebrating self-care moments, like a bath or brushing your teeth.
• Resting and getting a good night’s sleep.
• Drinking water and staying hydrated.
• Doing mild exercises like walking or yoga.
• Eating nourishing meals—even if it’s a simple smoothie.
• Completing small tasks, like dishes or laundry.
• Recommitting to routines, even if it’s just a baby step.
• Practicing gratitude—journaling or meditating on what you’re thankful for.
• Spending time with loved ones, whether through calls or in person.

If you’re looking for more ways to nurture your body, especially during a flare, check out my post on 6 Ways to Embrace Winter Wellness and Thrive This Season. I list tips that have helped me not only through the winter months but during flare-ups as well. Embracing simple, supportive practices can make a big difference on your healing journey.

Cherishing Little Moments of Progress on Your Healing Journey

Even small victories have a big impact on our healing journey, even if they don’t always feel significant. All of my “breadcrumbs” are little moments that remind me that I’m capable of healing and taking care of myself. It’s easy to feel like I’ll always feel as bad as I do right now. But then I realize: I did a little more today than I did yesterday, and that shows me that I won’t always feel this way. That’s progress.

Simple Acts of Kindness and Inspiration

Yesterday, I decided to surprise my coworkers in the finance office with a box of pastries to thank them for their hard work closing out the fiscal year. During my lunch break, I also got the chance to finally make the radish chicken salad I had been eyeing on TikTok for weeks. As I sat alone, savoring the moment, inspiration struck, and I felt compelled to write this blog post. Looking back, I realize how simple acts—like sharing kindness, enjoying a delicious meal, and feeling inspired—can be deeply healing. Recognizing these little moments is just as important as the moments themselves. Have you experienced any small victories lately that brought you joy or inspiration?

Living with a chronic illness can be hard. But little moments like these deserve our recognition. They are steps forward, even if they don’t feel huge. The healing journey isn’t always straight, but every step, no matter how small, brings us closer to a brighter future.

Honoring Your Personal Healing journey

Your healing journey is your own. It’s filled with strength and resilience only you have. Every step you take, no matter how small, is a testament to your courage and determination. Healing is not a race; it’s a personal process and requires patience and self-compassion. So, when you doubt your progress, take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come. Celebrate the small victories. They’re the building blocks of your well-being.

Explore Resources for Your Healing Journey

When the path ahead seems unclear, remember that even a small break in the trees can bring sunlight. Trust your inner strength. You have what it takes to keep going. And be gentle with yourself. Healing is an act of self-love, and you deserve to be kind to yourself. Surround yourself with support, do what brings you joy, and never underestimate the power of a simple act of self-care.

Your journey is yours alone, but you are never truly alone. There’s a whole community of people walking their own paths and finding their own moments of light. If you’d like, share your “breadcrumbs” or thoughts in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more support, feel free to join our Facebook group, where we can encourage one another on our healing journeys together. I hope to see you there!