The Inner Journey: Navigating Life with a Rare Disease w/ Chris Anselmo

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Chris Anselmo shares his journey living with limb girdle muscular dystrophy and how he transformed his adversity into the resilience strategies he now shares through his newsletter Hello Adversity. Though the physical challenges of progressive muscle weakness have been difficult, Chris reveals that the emotional and mental components were the hardest part of his experience.

• Diagnosed at age 21 after noticing muscle weakness while running, Chris initially struggled with denial and depression
• Learning to fall – literally and figuratively – taught Chris about his own inner toughness and resilience
• Rather than using clichéd phrases like "bounce back," Chris prefers the straightforward advice to "keep going"
• Authentic confidence comes from experience and proving to yourself that you can handle challenges
• Business school, public speaking, and writing became achievements that built Chris's confidence after his diagnosis
• Our inner critic often places limitations on us that aren't real – Chris suggests scoping out the steps involved to see what's truly possible
• For those feeling overwhelmed, stepping away temporarily can help reset your mind, like an overheating computer
• Journaling helps identify specific emotions and fears, making them easier to address
• Chris keeps a "highlight reel" document of accomplishments and positive feedback to combat self-doubt
• Nervousness before challenges isn't negative – it's evidence that you care and are pushing beyond your comfort zone

Visit Hello Adversity at helloAdversity.substack.com to learn more about Chris's resilience strategies and resources.

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