What disabled people know about making better New Year’s resolutions

Instead of constantly pushing themselves, some disabled people embrace a more relaxed approach to goal-setting

December 30, 2022 at 6:00 a.m. EST
A blue figure hugs itself gently and looks up at a small, yellow butterfly floating above. In the background, a soft sun glows.
(Hayley Wall for The Washington Post)
6 min

Living with a disability can teach you to approach New Year’s resolutions with a healthier and gentler mindset.

Just ask Claire Richmond, 38, who has a rare liver condition that can cause severe fatigue, migraines, pain and vomiting. In her younger days, Richmond made ambitious resolutions — a low-carb diet to lose weight and a plan to run a marathon — that landed her in the hospital.

Read more from Well+Being

Well+Being shares news and advice for living well every day. Sign up for our newsletter to get tips directly in your inbox.

Are you taking your meds wrong? Many patients make these common mistakes.

Centenarians give their advice about everything.

The wall sit is a simple exercise that can lower your blood pressure.

Tart cherries — more specifically, tart cherry juice — may help with inflammation and pain.

Do you self-sabotage? Here’s how to stop.