This article is for the newly diagnosed diabetic, the diabetic who feels he is not growing, the diabetic who knows there is more out there and that he can improve himself…

There is so much information out there about diabetes - its complications, its limitations - that when one is newly diagnosed with diabetes, he does not know where to start.

Let me identify five ways diabetics box themselves in and then under every way, I will give another framework as to how to go beyond these limiting beliefs.

1. I cannot expect to live a long happy life.

People hear about how difficult testing blood sugar is, how hard to control the blood sugar and how to expect complications. In this setting, it is hard to picture a long happy life without worries.

Before we were ever diagnosed as a diabetic, we started as a healthy Being. 

Yes, diabetes has a lot of signs symptoms and complications but the good news is it is one of the most widely studied and improved upon diseases. 

There are thousands of examples of diabetics who have lived long happy productive lives. off doing the best weekend with what we have and expecting the best outcomes.

2.  I cannot avoid complications.

Diabetes may be a permanent problem especially for insulin-dependent diabetics, but confidence in your actions start with gaining enough knowledge about your disease. 

And another person's experience does not have to be your experience. I can guarantee you that no matter where you are in the diabetic Spectrum, there is always room for improvement. 

And as you follow a step-by-step Health Plan and know what your goals are, not just for maintaining a good range of blood sugar but having goals for growing into a happy and healthy person who is living his best life in every moment.

3.  My work options are limited because I am a diabetic.

There are many workers like you with diabetes who do very well in a very wide range of work activities. See blog post #2. 

Employers recognize new hires not by their diabetes status but by how good a person is fit for the job at hand. As long as you have your diagnosis under control, you are not different for the next healthy person who is applying for the same job.

4. I cannot eat food I like. I am doomed to a life of counting carbs.

Contrary to popular belief diabetes is not just about carbohydrates. It is more about  

maintaining a balanced diet and being creative about fitting in your favorite foods in it.

Start with a diet goal in mind then maintain blood sugar within a good range and then choose wisely food groups that fit in your ideal diet.

5. Nobody understands my story. I hate to be a burden. 

You are not alone in your diagnosis. The better you take care of yourself, the more you help the people around you. 

But you have to take the initiative to reach out two other people with diabetes, to support groups, to participate and programs like the Diagnosis Shift for Diabetes, where people gather and share ideas and helpful ways on how to deal with and even thrive with a diagnosis.

I find great joy when a client gets the “aha” moment and shifts their thinking to a more empowered framework from which they can work from and thrive. 

Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your journey.