Communication, honesty and integrity are key in building trust, as well as listening to ensure you have a thorough understanding. Be honest, don’t just tell people what you think they want to hear.
“A strong woman knows she has the strength enough for the journey, but a woman of strength knows it is in the journey where she will become strong”.
In 2015 I was diagnosed with Lupus, an autoimmune condition. This came as a shock and left me feeling quite helpless and angry that I would have to live with a long-term illness that cannot be cured. In my mid 20’s I was told that I would need medication for the rest of my life and consequently suffered with hair loss and weight gain, both of which knocked my confidence.
A further low point was being told that I may struggle to conceive, and I knew at this point I had two options: accept it at face-value and give up on everything I had worked hard for, or, focus and prioritise what was important to me, and then take small steps in working towards those goals.
I’m pleased to say that I was able to finally stop taking steroids in January this year and feel great! My diagnosis shaped me and made me determined to make the most out of life.