How Chronic Illness Affects My Planning | Plan As You Go February 2019

[@DBDawn]

I found that with a chronic illness, planning by day rather than by week helps me to not give up. If I plan my week and I fail on Monday because I had a bad day, my whole week fails too. That's just my mindset. If I plan by day and I fail that day, I start fresh the next day.

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

Des that’s a big reason why I plan the way I do ❤️

[@werelemur1138]

I'm crying right now. Because I kinda needed to hear this. My chronic illness isn't life threatening, but it's frustrating that I can't do all the things I think I should be able to do.

[@kimroberts8113]

Cindy, as a fellow “spoonie,” I would love to see a “planning with chronic illness” video.

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

I have sooo many thoughts, I likely will!

[@kibby123451]

Agreed!! :)

[@rebeccamcgee3110]

I agree! You are real with us about your chronic illness on a regular though too.

[@HelenOpheim]

same. Spoonie here too.

[@lillianpike3389]

Another Spoonie here too.... RA, Lupus Fibro, T1D to name a few.... I would love ideas on how to keep going and how to incorporate and accept our chronic illness into our planning.

[@RobinT346]

One of the things I find helps in managing/planning with a chronic illness is to reframe your understanding of rest. When you are ill resting is a task. It is something you should do. It is as valid a task as anything else you put on your daily to do list or in your planner. I find that seeing rest as a thing I have to do makes me feel less guilty for having to do it. I will actually write "rest" or "take a nap" on my daily list. It makes me see it as a sensible productive thing to do as part of my day. If I achieve "rest" and can cross it off in my bullet journal I will probably have more ability to finish other things on my list than if I tried to push through became exhausted and stopped functioning. Rest = self care = valid and productive. The other thing I do is update my bullet journal throughout the day. As well as crossing things off as I go I will also add new items to the list if I am having a good day or reschedule/ migrate things if I realise I am having a slow day and won't be able to get to those things on my list. It means I don't look at the list at the end of the day and see "failure" instead I am taking control of my health and my workload and making active decisions. It means that I am consciously in control of my productivity rather than feeling like it is my body and health with is in control of me. It also allows for a more flexible timetable and realistic goal setting for the day.

[@selmaarnaut-madrigal667]

Wow that really resonated with me. Will do that in future.

[@booklearning716]

I am using the “top three” method, where I pick three things to do before work or during the day and three things for the evening, and those are my priorities.

[@sophieallen8111]

I have to tell myself, “it’s okay” a lot, even though my brain keeps insisting it’s not. It’s okay if I feel a certain way. It’s okay if I don’t get the things done that fit my high standards of what I’m “supposed” to do. It’s okay if I don’t do something as well as I maybe could on a perfect day in a perfect year. It’s hard to adjust my mindset in that way, but I’m working on it.

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

I know that feeling - I’m working on it too ❤️

[@bamboo72498]

Sophie Allen oh my gosh! I do that too! I’ve also learned to say ‘paws’ instead of ‘I’m sorry’ all the time. (See The Hamilcast podcast episodes with Eddy Lee for an explanation) I’m trying to learn that not everything I do is such a big deal and no one cares if i mess up or make a mistake or say something wrong/awkward. Even if in my head, it’s all wrong and the world is ending.

[@terikettelle4124]

Thank you so much for discussing how you have to plan based on your chronic pain. I have had 3 back surgeries and have severe nerve damage and with that I have chronic pain and I have recently been diagnosed with MS. Its hard for people with out chronic pain to understand when you have to live a lot of your life on a wait and see basis and they really dont understand the anger you feel at your body for not doing what you want it to do. It is so helpful to hear someone else talk about the same situation. By the way, I just bought my first passages book so o can read before I watch the show 😊

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

i hope you love it! it takes a hard turn part of the way in... the first time I tried to read it I struggled with that. The second time I pushed through and it was SO WORTH IT

[@mizzkrizz2045]

Yes please, I'd love to see more about chronic illness and planning!

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

You got it!

[@rebeccamadigan6735]

I think knowing your triggers - like sitting at your desk for a certain period of time - is so important. For anyone, not just for pain. I'm an accountant, so the first week of every month (like right now) is very busy while we close the books. Whether I have to work late or the day is jam packed, it causes tension that affects my productivity in my personal life. I have to adjust my home expectations or I end up feeling more overwhelmed. This week ended up having a lot of personal deadlines that were out of my control, and I am FEELING it. Asking for help is so important - I told my husband last night how overwhelmed I was feeling, and he immediately jumped in and handled the items that he could. I don't know why it's so hard to just ask for help in the first place!

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

Rebecca Madigan I will pour one out for you (and the rest of the accountants of the world). Good luck the next few months ❤️❤️❤️

[@furlovesbran]

I have fibromyalgia and arthritis. I've also had lypotripsy twice. I agree with you, having chronic illness at our age or any age for that matter is super hard. I got my diagnosis 6-7 years ago. I have fell apart over losing the ability to do so much I could do 5-10 years ago. I plan alit, but if I can't get it done I try for the next day. Not completing a task makes me feel useless sometimes. I try not to beat my self up and I also have a wonderful man in my life who talks me down and keeps my spirits lifted so very often.

[@lifeofafatchick9605]

I don't have a chronic illness or chronic pain, but I'm currently in college and some days I just can't get stuff done. I use weekends to get a lot of work done usually, but sometimes I'll take Saturday off to just do nothing. I call those mental health days and I try not to beat myself up for needing them. I think acknowledging that I'm doing my best and my health is more important than the vast majority of things on my to do list is key to not burning myself out. I do get migraines once in awhile and on those days I can barely get out of bed. I end up just being grateful the next day when I feel better and can get shit done. I admire anyone with chronic pain who is able to get anything done. I don't know how I'd function if I had migraines every single day. Most of my daily struggles relate more to mental illness and that's hard enough as it is.

[@gemmanorman6459]

Hi Cindy, thank you for this video. You had me in tears because what you were saying is me. I suffer with severe fibromyalgia, ME, chronic fatigue, depression and anxiety. I've been suffering for over 12yrs now. I'm only 36 and like you hate my body giving up on me. I still struggle with accepting it as on a rare good day my brain still works and wants to do so much but my body prohibits me. I could go on but who cares. It is ones of the reasons why I want to try and start bullet journaling to help give me some help to get things done. Because I think because of my depression and anxiety I've developed really bad avoidance issues. Sorry rambling. Some more videos on chronic illness would be great. Best wishes Gemma

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

i hear you on the avoidance issues! I'm pretty sure I was bad about it before the disease really ramped up, but now... it's a daily struggle.

[@gemmanorman6459]

@@CindyGuentertBaldo I'm glad it's not just me then. People don't understand it. Some tips on how you feel with that would be great if you wouldn't mind including that in a video at some point. Thank you

[@shawnarlyn4385]

I still can’t call out sick from my full time job, even when my service dog says I can’t go... The emotional toll of feeling like I’ve let my supervisor and co-workers down is horrible. I have to have my husband call me out of work. I’ve been dealing with the original issue since I was 9, it got substantially worse at 29, and I’m now in my mid-40’s. I just re-entered the work force 3 years ago, and I still hate not going to Work!!

[@arianadavis8360]

I literally cried and something you said...."I am pissed at my body for giving up on me." Thank you for sharing such a private journey with us....

[@Speechie12345]

Love how you describe functional planning!!

[@wonderwonder30]

I can say in regards to you responding to comments, you are kicking ass! I was pleasantly surprised yesterday and the day before, when I commented on your video and had a response so quickly! (insert fangirl giggle here) Thanks for answering and keeping up with it all, kick ass sister!

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

was this fast enough? ;-) thank you, I appreciate hearing that

[@wonderwonder30]

Cindy Guentert-Baldo, haha! damn girl, you’re on your shit to-day!

[@sophiesticatedcreations93]

I have chronic back pain and sitting a desk doing my planning sometimes is just too much but doing a bullet journal gives me the motivation. I couldn't explain why but it makes me feel more productive and I love that. 😊

[@carmillasolomon2515]

Thank you for sharing about your chronic illness. I am a Type 1 diabetic and I just found out that I also have lupus. While life can be frustrating at times, I have found that using my planner, being intentional about my goals and allowing my husband to sometimes do the heavy lifting for me really helps emotionally. He cooks the best food in the world, which he should as a trained chef, and that helps me to maintain healthy eating habits. We work out together daily, although he still wont do yoga with me. And when I am sick, he's there to love me and care for me. I still have moments when my body and I don't get along but I'm so thankful for my support system and for others in the world that remind me it's ok to feel mad about the situation.

[@superplannergirl]

Thank you for discussing your illness with such candidness.... I have struggled my whole life with anxiety and depression but was hospitalized for it 7 years ago. I started using an ECLP shortly after my hospitalization and planning has helped so much to manage my illness. Not every day is good, but knowing what I'm doing and having a plan for it just helps SO much. Again, thank you.

[@miss00mayhem]

You truly hit the nail on the head with the anger. I am so mad a myself when I can't do something because of my PPMS. My body just hates me and doesn't do what I want or need it to do. I love hearing you speak on your chronic pain. It makes me feel less alone ♥️♥️

[@QueenHonestlySavage]

As a independent person it’s so hard for us to give up control and let others help but as chronically ill people we have to find a way to function the best we can even though we are helpful to others but when it comes to us we are upset our life situations….grateful for the little moments that most people don’t think about for real…GRACE

[@kimberlyingram2978]

Please speak about chronic illness and pain and planning. I’ve had strokes at 13 and cancer, and I’ve been in pain for 37 years, due to several different causes. I have to plan my function 10 days in advance, for example, if I go to a class with my son, I have to rest for a week before hand. Planning and gratitude helps me find joy...nothing like crossing out a color coded task. Bliss! I’ve adopted your year/ pain spread and it has helped greatly. Thank you for being you!

[@kaitlyng.473]

These PAYG/chatty videos are my favorite! I feel like I’m just hanging out with a friend, it’s much appreciated! I really love your outlook, it helps me a lot in things I’m going through.

[@jgillis05]

Hi Cindy. One of my favorite things about your video is watching you draw and letter the monthly prompts. When it's not PAYG month would you consider making a video of you lettering/drawing the prompts each month?

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

like a compilation video at the end of the month?

[@noop5_plans]

I would watch the shit out of a compilation of your drawing/lettering your monthly prompts!

[@jgillis05]

Yes, that would be amazing.

[@christinas.5241]

Yes Please!!!!

[@samanthamelendez8851]

This made me cry I totally relate. I've had chronic pain from nerve damage in my face. I beat myself up when I don't get things done, sometimes the pain is so bad all I can do is sit or lay down. I'm going to take the advice to heart.

[@katiel9779]

Thanks for being so real about chronic illness, you rock ❤️ I was 17 when my chronic illnesses started and I'm doing better now dealing with that mentally and emotionally but it's been rough! I love keeping a huge, thorough monthly health tracking spread in my bullet journal, with all my symptoms, daily medications, and other medications - especially to make sure I'm not taking certain meds too often! I keep a notes column beside it too so I can give context to flare ups - like on the 5th I worked out too hard and that's why I got so sick, etc. Gentle hugs to all y'all spoonies out there! ❤️

[@dianeandbrad529]

My pain tracker is very similar: I find the 1-10 pain scale is soooo hard to answer. For me, it is very similar: -was it just another day with pain? -did the pain increase to affect my whole body or really affect? -or was it totally awful and completely derailing? I find tracking it thst way helps when I go to dr visits because I can quickly show how the pain affects my quality of life.

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

quality of life is the phrase I think I was groping for when I was rambling!

[@jacquielopez5201]

Ty for discussing the chronic pain. It helps me understand more of what my husband is going through. Especially when he gets depressed that he can't do what he was able to do 2-3 yrs ago. He has had back surgery for it, we've tried everything and nothing helps. I just wanted to thank you for sharing part of your story

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

You are so welcome ❤️❤️

[@DBDawn]

Yes to planning with a chronic illness

[@JojozaHannaHawaii]

I love re-reading books. I skim through the first few readings just so I get the story and then read to understand for the nuances of the story. Tfs🌺

[@lynnew.2914]

I can so relate to Melanie about feeling guilty about not being able to do your daily task. Thank you Cindy for sharing so much. I just found you and subd. I really like your monthly Intentions and then weekly. instead of planning out a week when you don't know how your going to feel. Your way, when your good do as much as you can/want to. Take care.

[@rosebud21566]

I just discovered your channel and this video. I have a chronic illness and you hit the nail on head. I’m inspired to communicate my need for help. This will help my feeling of failure. Thank you so much. Happy Holliday! Thank you.

[@dianeandbrad529]

who else totally screached and cringed when Cindy accidently marked on her pixel page??

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

dude ME

[@maryannemoll]

Cindy Guentert-Baldo hahaha.

[@cherylmusgrove7]

Cindy, I’m so happy I found you. For a million reasons. I went into complete renal failure in the late nineties. I was on dialysis for three years then I had my transplant (kidney-pancreas) in 2000. 18 years I can acutely remember the feelings you have. You are right - find someone to say - give yourself a break and always ask for help. I still have a lot of health issues to deal with but doing well. I plan my days with a vengeance and always give myself a back up plan. We can use white out or another sticker to reschedule life. My planner reflects changes with clear cut plan B for days I feel lousy. Here is what I tell my patients - I’m a nurse-- turn anger into positive talk to your body - remember - our organs are made to work without you - they fail without your consent - now you feel like shit and I challenge you to keep in mind that your are now unwillingly put in charge of the hemodynamics of your organ- which we are not born to be organ substitutes- go easy do the very best you can. Xo

[@MichelleNaomiConner]

Loved being able to spend my lunch while you planned. It was very nice. I love that BuJo notebook and have been looking at them for a while. I think I'm going to use it as a reward for something I'm working on.

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

nice! that sounds like a lovely reward.

[@MichelleNaomiConner]

@@CindyGuentertBaldo I've been trying to change mostly spending habits. To where I'm not just buying everything I see that and using things. The new Mildliners colours are on my rewards list as well.

[@HeatherBryant22]

Yes please do videos about chronic pain and planning. I have guilt when I dont use my planner because I am down with chronic health issues!

[@amyt8475]

Thank you for your honest in site into how you resent your body for failing you, I needed to hear it, its something I feel with my chronic illness but struggle to even acknowledge and express. Always love hearing peoples experience even if the illness isnt the same the experience still tend to overlap. We all struggle. Blesings from a chronic illness partner in crime 💜

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

Thank you - blessings to you as well ❤️❤️

[@jaievi76]

First..Love your channel! Second...do you think you would plan the way you do even if you did not have a channel about planning? I love the idea of planning and being organized but I often feel like I don't have enough things to plan out. I work 40 hrs a week in an office but don't have a ton going on outside of work. I also get wrapped up in the prepping (buying all the things) to plan that I get overwhelmed and end up not planning. Like I don't have all the right things to do it right. I don't know if any of that made sense, lol. Anyway, you rock!💛

[@lyndiegf]

Wow, I’ve just realised that I’ve got a hobby! Ok I’ve had Crohn’s for almost 30 yrs, and I think my biggest thing was acceptance, once I got over that, it became easier to give myself some slack, like you my husband is my rock, and the one person that will tell me to give myself a break.

[@lzairong128]

I also change my plan from today's task to twoday's task for similar reason.

[@mallowpuff5]

Thanks for helping with my question! I got a bit teary hearing your answer because I relate to so much of it, and it sounds so different hearing someone else saying it. I’ll be sharing your video to some of my close friends, thanks so much!

[@aslaug8102]

I just want to say a big THANK YOU for this video!! You are an inspiration in so many ways

[@jessicasaniga2974]

Yes! I’m in such a planner funk due my depression. Though not the same, often similar things help.

[@Obsidian_Iris_]

I know exactly what you mean about having to deal with life with chronic illness. The orthopedic doctor that first was treating me when I developed the chronic illness that affects me the most on a daily basis had to talk me through some major changes to my life that I was not ready for let alone happy with. My refusal to take daily meds after we exhausted every therapy that would have made the medication unnecessary ended with “Think of it like taking vitamins.” After I accepted the idea of having to take daily meds everyday as a woman in my thirties, My next battle was to get to the point where I could once again do whatever task I wanted without thought of running out of energy or overdoing it to the point it affected my pain and/or energy level the next d I would love a series about Irving and planning with chronic illness. It is difficult to explain to people how much a chronic illness impacts your normal day to day living, especially if you were the type of person who previously had no limitations. The first winter after developing fibromyalgia, I came across a KZbin tutorial for building a really cool planter for herbs. I had planned to save it as my first Spring project, but then remembered that physically, I would be unable to handle such a strenuous project. I almost broke down into tears; that was the moment I realized just how much had been taken from me by this illness.Things that I used to be able to do spontaneously, like errands, now have to be planned for. When shopping, I now have to consider the size and weight of something I will need to take into the house. Some things make it inside in stages. Others I had to get help taking heavy items inside. Things I used to do spontaneously, now have to be planned for because I have to consider my energy level, how I’m likely to be feeling, if I’ll need assistance, etc. it’s beyond frustrating. It affects your ability to make and keep future commitments when you don’t know how you will feel on a given day, which can negatively impact your relationships. The list goes on. Yeah, a video series of how you handle these things would be welcomed.

[@artycraftyalchemy]

I have depression, anxiety and Ptsd so sometimes just getting started is a struggle. My head often gets in the way and I let myself get distracted too easily. After a two week break I am trying to get back into filming and editing, it's hard lol. I love making videos but the editing sucks. I need better editing tools for sure. But just the time involved in editing some times is huge. I am a one woman show TV tying to stay on top of everything but often things slide because I forget to do them or my brains just fried.

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

I feel you! There are days where I love the monotony of editing and others where I'm like FUCK IT ONLY LIVE VIDEO FROM NOW ON. haha Do you generally film and edit on the same day, or separate them?

[@thislittlecafe]

Hi Cindy! Honestly, I am so appreciative of your realness and openness of your life. I have chronic depression and anxiety disorder as well as ptsd that constantly pulls me back from doing everyday tasks. But my therapist (sidenote: therapy is a blessing) has always reminded me that even if I don't do what I plan to do and beat myself up over it is taking deep breaths and reminding myself that the process to recovery is long and challenging, but I shouldn't focus on my downfalls. I should focus on the big picture that I am doing better than I once was a year ago, per say. For instance, I could never bring myself to make my bed last year. But now, I've made it a habit to do everyday. It's so small, but it has proved to be significant. So I also just remind myself of the little things I am accomplishing.

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

i love that. It's similar to what I preach when learning lettering, but for your LIFE.

[@mammabear379]

I hope that you can post more of these in the future. Planning for me is a necessity and a hobby but since I have two little boys and a teen i don't have as much time as i would like for it. Sometimes the pain just gets to me and I don't even write in my planner, I'll just decorate put appointment sti kers etc and then leave it. I'm hoping to be more consistent in 2020. I

[@brandybullockauthor3778]

I have migraines so often.. and it makes it really hard to function beyond breathing some days.. honestly there are days i don't even use my planners/bujo. The simple act of waking up, personal care and being somewhat present is an accomplishment. It has taken me a long time to accept that it is ok to just be present and get nothing done when you need to focus on your health first. Also when I have the less painful days - sometimes instead of a ToDo list.. i will make a TaDone list. That helps me to see that even though I had a bad day I was still productive.

[@JennCampbell]

I have to remind myself that having a good day doesn't make me a superhuman. And if I push too hard, tomorrow could end up a washout.

[@sonjamarkwart8023]

Binge watch - me too! I don't keep up at all and I tend to rewatch all sorts of things. I have watched The Office (on DVD) and Bones more than I should admit!

[@cheryldailey5310]

Thank you for tackling the chronic illness topic. I have an autoimmune arthritis and fibro. Living with a chronic illness can suck. It took me several years to learn my limitations and how to be kind to myself. I try not to beat myself up for skipping planning on my bad days. I also celebrate small victories, like showering or wearing a bra. *big hugs* ❤

[@chelseab91]

Your ginger reminded me of one of those blow-up noodles they always have at car dealerships. Spending my evening catching up and I could think of nothing better to do on a Sunday night. Definitely love your plan as you go series' and I admire your dedication to a video a day.

[@robbien.3964]

I like your approach to your pain tracker. It’s got me thinking that something like that might be good for me. For me it would be about learning how many days did I just suffer through when if I had just taken some painkillers, maybe my day wouldn’t have been so negatively affected. Might be eye-opening to see in black and white just how many times my resistance to taking drugs is actually working against me.

[@sarabockenstedt9237]

Mental illness can keep me from staying on top of my planners, tasks, and all the things. At least once a month I'm playing catch up. I have pages of coping mechanisms, actions and activities to do when in the deep dark of the shit part of my life. Your tips for chronic illness also work for mental illness. And self care? For me, it is not manicures and massages, it's taking a shower, doing my hair, putting on make up. Some days it is a struggle, other days are easier. Thank you for sharing your struggles.

[@colleenmegan2616]

Have you tried the yellowpaperhouse planner? It's a coil, completely neutral, and a combo of vertical and dot grid. I love mine!

[@dbklyn97]

I can relate on not cutting myself some slack. I also rely on my family to remind me. I would like to see a video on planning with a chronic illness.

[@ProfessorLukas]

Love your honesty about being mad at your body.

[@wooster0520]

I have chronic illness and I would love a video on planning with chronic illness!!!

[@amarimai4620]

I'm type 1 diabetic, and record blood readings and reminders to order drugs, doctor's appointments etc. I have to keep them recorded but sometimes it really gets me down to see them there, mainly because my illness isn't going to be cured and sometimes I don't need to see a constant reminder of it. Sometimes it's nice to think I don't have health problems. I'm in a whingey mood lol.

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

my husband is T1 as well and I recognize that same feeling from him

[@tanyapaul8209]

My daughter was diagnosed when she was 8. She is 18 now. She is the strongest person I know. Amani, remember that you are strong and remember that you control your Diabetes. It doesn’t control you.

[@sarahbabusci1416]

I hear you. Its nice to pretend but not deny. T1 myself, other autoimmune things. The rollercoaster is real. I'm a newer watcher and I'm really enjoying your videos Cindy.

[@jamiek8934]

As a person with chronic pain (fibromyalgia and C-Spine Arthritis), I find that I can't fill my days with to-do's because I get disappointed and angry with myself if I can't get them done. I make small daily boxes in my bujo to list appointments or actual things that HAVE to get done that day. At the bottom I make my weekly to-do's. Then I get them done when I'm able to. If I can't, I move it to the following week. I also start each month with a monthly calendar with a list along the side of to-do's that have to be done sometime that month.

[@dianeandbrad529]

Umm... is it silly that I finally had a eureka moment listening to this? Ive been making the same size to-do list with a 3,000 step limit as I had with an unlimited step count per day. Thank you for making that so clear and saying it outloud - I am going to try really hard to apply this and I just have to face that reality. I am a year in to my pain condition and as mucj as I think I am getting better at adjusting, I am constantly reminded that I still have a lot to adjust still.

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

i'm glad it helped! it really is difficult to retrain how we see ourselves. And then as soon as you think you've got it shit changes again. sigh

[@KianahSaro]

Yes to all the videos when you have an opportunity and the energy! I have anxiety (and ADD... And Executive Dysfunction) and I decided to start writing what I'm calling my "Elsa" list. Basically, all the things that my brain freaks out about that I have no control over and so should "let it go" (do you have that song stuck in your head yet?). Like the choices my family members make; I can only control my own choices, so those are the ones I should focus on. Or the weather- I can't do anything about what it's like outside, I can only dress appropriately. I'll also be making a list of the things I CAN affect, but I started with the ones I can't, because it's easier to convince myself to let it go when I have it on paper.

[@k.ande.southworth9197]

Please do the chronic illness/pain planning videos if you have time. I struggle with it too and I'm always overbooking things or I'm afraid of writing it all down because I know I won't get it done.

[@diannesley7913]

YES to assumptions video please. Enjoyed today.

[@ChelleBeeby]

I (like you) try not to load my day up by preplanning it. I keep my preplans for mostly appointments of things that have to be done on certain days... then I fill in as I go... chronic pain is a fucked up beast who doesn't play well with others, but I try and some days are empty and some days are full and as long as I know myself I did the best I could for that day, I'm happy to fill my empty days with deco (also cheers me up!)

[@elahm76]

As always; a really interesting ep! Since I’m living with a chronic illness that gives me PAIN as hell (amongst other symptoms) I would love to here more about you’re way of handling your illness! I’m also curious about your church and what faith it’s about. Could you have an YT-ep about that or a pod-ep? I’m really interested in different beliefs, all religions, since I need to find what I believe. My belief is a modpodge of all sorts of religions right now and when I having those days when I feel “take me away from here” I do not know what I mean “that place” would be. Chronic illness tends to give you existential questions and those knowledges about existential questions is something I have use of since I work with hematologic cancers. Thanks for answering my question this ep!!!❤️ You’re inspirational!!!

[@911Decker]

How long does it typically take you to do your meal planning? Do you look to a specific place you go (Pinterest or something), or do you have a list of things you pick from, or do you have another way of getting ideas for meals? Is the bulk of that time spent looking for inspiration, or is there something else that consumes the time, maybe list making or coupon clipping?

[@WhattheBeck]

Whoa... I just realized I've now been watching you for the length of one full pain tracker O.O

[@karenshadrach4036]

Cindy I would love you to do something about living with a chronic illness xx

[@michellewhite9842]

I have a chronic illness and I work full time as a teacher. There are days when I feel like I'll never make it. After work and on the weekends I am very unproductive. I spend most of my time sleeping to recover from the last week and recharge for the next week. That's when stickers all over the planner is better than just completely blank columns. For some reason adding stickers make me feel productive instead of all the empty space that is evidence I did nothing. Looking at an empty planner makes me sad because I didn't feel like doing anything so I sticker that sucker up.

[@Ell_Bell05]

Last year I did a year in pixels but I tracked my mood and I didn’t keep up with it a lot. I think my problem was that I had way to many options. This year I’m doing one but I called it a “stress edition” and I chose 3 main colors similar to yours. I have a regular ass day, kinda stressed could’ve been better, and a terrible day super overwhelmed. I’ve actually kept up with it and I think narrowing down my options really helped.

[@isabelaoliveira6999]

now I understand the "hi mark" thing!!!!! i feel like part of the gang now lol also thought you had a cat named Mark

[@thefictionkitten]

I totally understand being mad at yourself/ your illness because you couldn’t get stuff done. I am like that too, I was just telling someone that. It’s frustrating when you want to do things and can’t cause your body said no lol. I was born with Hydrocephalus. So I’ve had my condition my whole life, and for a while I actually felt normal - I wasn’t but I felt a lot more like it but the last couple of years have really changed me and I’m not able to do all the things I was. And I definitely still struggle. But I’m hopeful I can figure out a good way to adjust when I need to. I have a bad habit of scrapping everything and trying to start over and I need not to do that.

[@gadget_anderson]

Oh man, I cried lol I feel you on being mad at your body. I have cervical cancer and my pain fuckin prevents me from doing A lot of shit. I'm only 36 and I really wanna do what normal people do. Thanks for your videos seriously, thank you.

[@jessicamihm7401]

...I just watched “Oh Hi, Mark.” clips from The Room on the Internet for way too long 😂 I’ve never seen that movie and for such a long time I wondered what you meant by that!

[@rebeccamcgee3110]

OMG! I can totally relate to you not giving yourself some slack unless your husband tells you to! I am my worst enemy! I am still trying to find the balance in my life and planning with a chronic illness. I was diagnosed with lupus in November. Sometimes I use my horizontal EC as a journal because, the day totally sucked. I have many issues because of the lupus so, somedays I just write "I had a shitty day! Fuck you Lupus" The biggest advice I can give to someone who plans with a chronic illness is, don't beat yourself up for not completing your to do list or filling out your planner. I just sat down and planned this week and it's Thursday!

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

that is fantastic advice!

[@elizabethrose8177]

Please do planning with chronic illness videos! I have dysautonomia (my autonomic nervous system doesn't work right) and I super struggle with getting things done being in college and working while trying to manage my symptoms.

[@michele9159]

Hi Cindy! You may have mentioned this but I can't find it in the many videos I watch of yours but where did you get your cool washi knife? Thanks for being so awesome! I adore you and your channel ! 💖

[@livie1782]

Thank you. that's a great answer. yea I just use a A3 note book. YEA you said my name lol xx

[@livie1782]

and yes you are sexy lol ...

[@OceaniaOrchid]

Oh I relate to this so much. The last few years with my surgeries from recurrent hernias I relate, especially as I’m still healing. I also relate on another level with motherhood and unexpected things coming up like a kid getting sick. Trying to be there and not get frustrated at what I can no longer do (that I just planned the night before) as I’m caring for and holding a sick toddler. My biggest problem is then I usually get in a funk and what I was motivated to do that day/week I have trouble getting re-motivated when the pain crisis or sickness is over. My husband says just start, but sometimes that is just sooo hard. I would be interested in where you break down projects, like planning for March. Are you doing that in your bullet journal, Powersheets, or online with Trello?

[@simplyinspiredlife5603]

Would love to see videos about living with chronic illness

[@eh1843]

Two part answers to your questions - I do have chronic illnesses and they have been part of my life for so long that I'm not really sure of what I do on adapt my life around them. I eat a lot of sandwiches, pre-made salads, and breakfast cereals because I can't stand long enough to make a full meal. Clothing I wear loose clothing. I'd love to be able to afford LulaRue dresses because those would be ideal. Generally I wear light shoes because thy they are heavy they can pull out my joints. My bedroom is very much a nest for bad pain days - I have a TV and lots of pillows. The Google Home I have seems to be working as adaptive tech in my life. The main reason I plan is because of all my medical appointments. I use a pre-printed planner because I can't always draw it all up a la Bullet Journaling. I read almost exclusively on my tablet because books are too heavy. Those are the things I can remember off the top of my head. The next part is more fun - my assumptions about you. I assume you are a Californian like my family is. The other day someone said that I have a "kind aura" and I didn't flinch - it was a compliment! You're in the Bay Area so I assume a higher level of tech knowledge and more liberal leaning in you mindset. Heck, you did lettering fro Trader Joe's so you I assume that you lean more towards healthy foods. TL:DR - Chronic illness such and I think you're a hippie.

[@erin723]

Great video! I have started writing in the sub-tasks underneath that one single line so I can feel a little more accomplished that day. I have a lot of tasks that are one-liners but are really multi-step and time consuming. 🥰 PS - have you gotten snow this week?

[@gwirithil1]

I have a dedicated list of shows, usually older shows, that I reserve to plug in over appointments and meetings I suddenly can't make. They're not demanding shows I haven't seen, because heavy thinking on pain days is an 'oh hell no'. They're just something I'll enjoy enough that I won't stew on whatever I'm not doing (think Miss Marple. Chopped. Project Runway. Superhero movies. Etc). Other people will NEED the greater distraction, so that's just my personal coping strategy. And, like several others here, I plan by day. Anything more than 24 hours ahead is 'if possible'.

[@amyk5382]

Sara I do the same thing with tv shows. All my bad days or exhausted evenings are spent re-watching The Office or 30 Rock - because I don't have to think or focus or anything, just laugh.

[@AMG_Creates]

With EC putting out new pens I was wondering if you ever did a 'Dual tip challenge'? Color comparisons, compared tips (could not write that without laughing), and compared how they write? I may suck it up and get the EC Twilight.

[@karenwood2928]

I remember minge! I'd forgotten about the Oprah connection. What are the colored markers you used in Powersheets? I checked your Amazon store to see if I could figure out but I failed. The Hate U Give was amazing, and this reminds me I need to nag my niece to see if she's read it yet since I got it for her for Xmas.

[@shannons4730]

I was wondering if you'd be willing to talk about how Zoloft is going for you thus far?

[@Planningwithmonserrate]

Love the show the passage

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

yay! i am excited to watch it!

[@Chosenoneful]

Hi Cindy...... when was the last time you watched Buffy??? I like to just watch a select few ...

[@rebekahgetchell8145]

Heavy question but... When you spoke about resentment towards your body because it's giving up on you, I indentify heavily with that. Mine is because I have had 1 ectopic and 3 miscarriages since November 23rd 2016 and I'm only 27 years old. I'd love to hear more thoughts and perhaps ways you have found on your own, or in therapy to help you in moments of body resentment overwhelm, or ways you found helpful to make you feel better about your body.

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

I may save this for a full blown video - I'm not sure I could really get into this during a PAYG video (in part because I'm still working on it.

[@sharpma]

as do I

[@rebekahgetchell8145]

Cindy Guentert-Baldo oh sorry lol. I totally meant this as a full blown potential March video. You could consider it my birthday present as my birthday is in March. LOL

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

@@rebekahgetchell8145 sounds like a plan ;-)

[@missgabbyplans5029]

I'm new to lettering and what font is the best for newbies. Also I would love to see more videos. Also I have siatica, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and insomnia I get how hard it can be to stay with your plans I just say ok I didn't get it done so let's put them on a new day.

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

go to my old videos and check out Llamas Love Lettering #3!

[@accidentalparadox]

I don't know if you have ever talked about this but I was wondering what happens in your house during your 'planning time' if you're not filming. Do you go to a quiet room to do it, and do you see it as strictly a solitary activity - or do you sit with other people in the living room and chat while you do it for example? Also, do your husband and kids ever look through your planners and do you care if other people read them all?

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

I will totally talk about this tomorrow!

[@shay_s3867]

Q for the video : is it worth buying al of thoes stickers for planning ? you know some times you buy and buy and you wont reealy use them all

[@anniegilpin4173]

Have you ever reviewed the Recollections planners from Michaels?

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

I did back when they first launched... maybe 2016? I haven't looked at them recently, although I'd be willing if people want me to!

[@gadget_anderson]

What is "head space" in the power sheets?

[@corkspa]

I have chronic back pain (and a host of other issues that I just found out is probably the golf ball sized stone in my gallbladder lol) and what I do when I'm feeling guilty about being able to do what I feel like I should is to do something that makes me smile. Toss a ball at the dog, watch silly crap TV or KZbin videos of idiots falling down, read, game, whatever just so long as I smile. I find that after a bit of that I still feel guilty but it's easier to recognize that I shouldn't and need to give myself some time.

[@CindyGuentertBaldo]

i think we tend to underestimate as a society how important silly things that make us smile really are!

[@angelaburklen]

Have any good pointers for MH illness and planning?

[@emilbug312]

You need to give Umbrella Academy a watch. It's on Netflix and incredible!

[@gadget_anderson]

What are you gonna do to replace plan as you go next month? I'm gonna miss these!

[@magicalpatterns]

Have you ever tried Hobonichi?