now reading:

Life Lessons That Cancer Has Taught Me

share post:

back to top 

Life lessons that cancer has taught me | As a cancer survivor, I can look back now and see that a positive outcome from the experience is the many life lessons learned. Whether you're fighting cancer now, a survivor, or simply on a mission to live your best life, I think you'll find both inspiration and motivation in this post. Click to read it now or pin it for later! | The Dimple Life #thedimplelife #lifelessons #cancersurvivor #bestlife #inspiration #motivation

Self Growth

Life Lessons That Cancer Has Taught Me

December 30, 2018

by: The Dimple Life

Cancer. I had it. And then I didn’t. It was a very surreal emotional roller coaster I was on earlier this year. I’m happy to be closing out 2018 with that part of my journey in the past. While the diagnosis, surgery, and recovery all occurred within a matter of a few months (thankfully!) I walked away with a whole long list of what I learned about myself. Cancer is good for some things – it’s taught me a lot about what I value most in my life. Here are my top 10 lessons I’ve learned.

I hope that some of my learnings I share below can help you in some way in your own journeys!

Time is precious and limited. Use it wisely.

When I was getting my CT scans done, or lying down on the surgery table, flashes of time were zooming around in my head. There was so much more I wanted to do and see. This just couldn’t be it! I told myself that if I were to recover from cancer, I would be intentional with my time. The time we have here is never guaranteed. Anything can happen to anyone at any moment. How you spend your time and who you spend your time with is what makes life, life.

True friendships will always rise to the top.

When you’re in good spirits and always happy, there are so many people that want to be around you. It’s natural – being around positive people lifts everyone up! But I’ve realized, when you’re going through a trauma or a hardship, the people around you tends to shift a little. I can’t say I’m not bummed by having to let go of certain friendships. People I’ve known for years… but when you’re on the verge of a breakdown and it’s silent or close to silent on the other end, it’s a little bit easier to walk away. Your real friends will step up for you. Cancer is not a fun or comfortable topic but the people that matter will reach out to you and support you in the ways that you need.

Take your health seriously.

That nagging pain you have in your lower back, those stomach aches you always seem to get, the irregular menstrual cycle, whatever it is. Your body is telling you something. If you don’t know why any of it is happening, then I urge you, that if something about your body feels off – look into it. This is not meant to scare anyone at all but it’s just to be more mindful. Our body speaks to us in so many ways. When we eat something, when we move, when we don’t give it the rest it needs, our body has a response to all of it and it either tells us it’s happy or feeling sad. Take ownership of your health and your body. You only get one.

Let go of the B.S.

The day to day stresses don’t matter. Honestly, I do find myself having to check myself on this daily and it’s not something I’m always successful at. But I always some how come back to – “it’s only [fill in the blank].” Because it’s true. There’s very few real things that matter. The traffic, being late, someone flaking on you, not booking that project, whatever it is – ask yourself if it’s something you will be upset about in a week, a month, next year. If the answer is probably not, then it’s time to let it go!

Learn to ask for help.

There’s nothing like cancer that makes you feel vulnerable. For a while after my surgery, I wasn’t able to walk, so I had to lean on my mom for the most basic help of getting up to go to the bathroom. We grow up and work so hard to become independent. Sometimes it can be foreign to lean on others again and ask for help but it’s not only necessary but it is also a sign of your own strength. Asking for help means you’re strong enough to know when you need it.

Positivity counts for a lot.

I feel like my years of being optimistic and positive have been the training ground to get me through cancer. Cultivating positive thoughts and emotions takes work. Over the years, I’ve developed an “everything will eventually be great” mindset and I can honestly say it helped me through this. It certainly wasn’t easy the whole time – with feelings of despair, death, exhaustion in my head – but I tried to be resilient and fill my time with building positive habits like meditating and reading books and articles on strength. I truly believe that if anyone in my life had to get cancer, I’m so happy it was me because I have the skills to get through it!

Allow yourself to grieve.

When I first got diagnosed, I was shocked. During the first week though, I was joking about it and making light of the situation. Friends and family thought I was weird, why was I joking about such a serious health concern? As the weeks went on though, there were fewer jokes and reality for me set in. I hadn’t allowed myself to grieve and be sad and confused. Once I allowed myself to actually feel these scary and confusing mix of emotions, I cried. I cried a lot. And the act of shedding tears was so therapeutic for me. To actually feel, made me feel like I was not only accepting my reality but that I could start to cope with it too.

You are made up of more than you think.

When you feel like in your daily life you can’t possibly handle anymore – trust me, you can and you will be able to. The tools and strength you have in your heart and soul will get you through the most trying times and when you walk through all the hardship – on the other side you will see exactly what you’re made of. And it’s a lot!

Stay present.

You’re not getting this moment right now back. Stop multi-tasking, stop thinking about one thing while you’re doing another. Enjoy the company you’re with, the activity you’re in the middle of – be present with the now because the now is the only guarantee you have.

Have gratitude for life.

Gratitude and “being grateful” isn’t just an Instagrammable thing to talk about or post. It’s a way to live your life. I’m so grateful to get to go on hikes with my dog, to get to eat my mom’s food, to get to make future plans with friends. There’s so much in our lives that are good – I choose to not focus on what’s not going right in my life. What is going right is all that matters!

Life lessons that cancer has taught me | As a cancer survivor, I can look back now and see that a positive outcome from the experience is the many life lessons learned. Whether you're fighting cancer now, a survivor, or simply on a mission to live your best life, I think you'll find both inspiration and motivation in this post. Click to read it now or pin it for later! | The Dimple Life #thedimplelife #lifelessons #cancersurvivor #bestlife #inspiration #motivation
Life lessons that cancer has taught me | As a cancer survivor, I can look back now and see that a positive outcome from the experience is the many life lessons learned. Whether you're fighting cancer now, a survivor, or simply on a mission to live your best life, I think you'll find both inspiration and motivation in this post. Click to read it now or pin it for later! | The Dimple Life #thedimplelife #lifelessons #cancersurvivor #bestlife #inspiration #motivation

Life lessons that cancer has taught me | As a cancer survivor, I can look back now and see that a positive outcome from the experience is the many life lessons learned. Whether you're fighting cancer now, a survivor, or simply on a mission to live your best life, I think you'll find both inspiration and motivation in this post. Click to read it now or pin it for later! | The Dimple Life #thedimplelife #lifelessons #cancersurvivor #bestlife #inspiration #motivation

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  1. Important lessons to remember! I had cancer when I was 19 and I’ve been cancer free for almost 10 years now. I tell people I don’t regret having cancer because it has taught me a lot of things I don’t think I would have learned at 19 if I didn’t go through this experience. The most important thing it has taught me is how to be brave and positive despite facing seriously challenging and scary situations. Now I have the comfort of knowing just how resilient I can be. Thank you for sharing your story.

    • Rachel says:

      Gosh, first of all – Congratulations on being almost 10 years cancer free!! That is incredible and I hope you do something to celebrate! I absolutely know what you mean about not regretting it or resenting having it. I feel the same. It’s definitely made us face mortality in a way that many others haven’t had to. We are stronger for it 🙂 Sending continued good health your way!

  2. Brenda Anderson says:

    Yes it is important

I'm looking for support with:

explore the blog

More on the Blog

I'm looking for support with:

self growth

career + finance

food

movement

home

beauty

relationships

do good

How to give back and do good for society. Image of canned goods and donated goods.

Life can be complicated but some things just aren’t. If someone is in need, you help. With so many organizations, causes, and those that need assistance – how do you navigate which causes to be a part of or give back to? Here are some tips on how to identify where and how you can start […]

5 simple sustainable living habits for beginners that you can implement today.
It is hard to know where to begin with volunteer work. Here are a few resources that can help you find the cause that is right for you. #Volunteerism #Volunteer #SocialImpact #NonProfitOrganization
Some life lessons to know about relationships as you become an adult.

If you are an adult dealing with relationships then you already know how hard they can be. However, you will also know how rewarding they are. You potentially get to spend the rest of your life with the one person you love. Getting married, having children, and buying your own place are some of the […]

It can be daunting to make friends as an adult with limited outlets the older you get. But that doesn't mean it's not possible. It takes getting out of your comfort zone and knowing where to look but know that it is possible with the following tips. #Friendships #Relationship #MentalWellness #MentalWellbeing #TheDimpleLife

It can be really daunting to make friends as an adult. As you grow into adulthood, it seems like there’s more opportunity to create relationships with your classmates in school, with your coworkers at work, and through various social settings. As you fully step into adulthood and enter different phases of your life though those […]

Why teaching 'family first' doesn't work all the time. #FamilyRelationships #HealthyRelationships #Boundaries #TheDimpleLife

Ever since I was in elementary school, I can remember a school project where I presented that the most important motto to me is “Family First”. This thinking was engrained into my upbringing from a very early age. On surface level, it’s quite beautiful. Family truly will always mean so much to me. However, at […]

How to moisturize and revitalize dry, winter skin. Here is an image of a young Asian woman applying moisturizer cream to her face.

In the cold winter months coming, your skin takes a major hit in how youthful and moisturized it looks and feels. Your skin, which is the largest organ of your body, needs consistent care throughout all the seasons of the year. Of course if you have access to steam treatments, that is one way to […]

This post is about our top 7 day spas in Vancouver.

From traditional Thai wellness to luxurious treatments inspired by the Far East, Vancouver offers a diverse array of spa experiences that cater to every relaxation seeker. In our face-paced lives, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of a day which can lead you to neglecting the one person who truly deserves a […]

Luxurious and voluminous hair is possible in colder months!

Winter is just around the corner and the cold months ahead mean chunky sweaters, snowfall, and quality time spent wrapped up in a blanket by the fireplace with your loved ones. However, as you revel in the winter activities and embrace the cozy change in weather, your hair might not share the same enthusiasm. The […]

Home moving tips that will relieve you from stress during a transitionary time.

When you move you are leaving behind memories as well as allowing yourself to move forward and make new memories. There is a lot to organize and plan to make sure it’s done without a hitch, therefore, it pays off to be organized and have a plan. If you are moving soon, you will want […]

This post is about a Holiday Gift Guide for the Tech Nerds.

The holiday season is upon us, and if you’re struggling to find the perfect gift for the tech enthusiast in your life, look no further! In this comprehensive holiday gift guide, we’ve curated a selection of cutting-edge gadgets and accessories that will delight even the most discerning tech nerds. From innovative smart devices to gaming […]

Learn simple tips on how to host a successful holiday dinner party.

The holiday season is synonymous with warmth, laughter, and, of course, delicious meals shared with loved ones. Hosting a holiday dinner party can be a joyous experience, offering you the opportunity to create lasting memories and share your love for food and company. However, orchestrating such an event can be overwhelming without proper planning and […]

Every day tips on how to strengthen your core muscles for better health.

We all know, working out is a must to staying healthy but when people think about “working out” they think about more intensive, hour-long exercise classes. It’s time to dismantle some of our beliefs around exercise though. You don’t have to go to a workout class, you don’t have to dedicate a certain amount of […]

This post is about releasing your stress at these yoga studios in Vancouver.

Yoga, with its profound emphasis on mental and physical well-being, serves as a sanctuary for many. Fortunately, Vancouver boasts a myriad of yoga studios that not only provide a tranquil escape from the chaos but also offer unique amenities and specialized practices tailored to cater to various needs. Let’s explore some of the best yoga […]

This post is about 7 products you need for a stress free travel.

Traveling can be an exhilarating and transformative experience for fun, adventure, and opportunities to grow. It allows us to explore new places, cultures, and cuisines. However, amidst the excitement, the journey itself can sometimes become overwhelming, especially if you’re not adequately prepared. The best thing we have realized through travel is if you have a […]

Kitchen tips for cooking beginners

Not everyone is a natural in the kitchen. Some people have their skills in other areas, but just because you don’t naturally have an affinity for cooking doesn’t mean you can’t learn – and ultimately be great in the kitchen! Like with most other things you try, the beginning can be tough but the most […]

This post is about healthy food spots in Vancouver.

Vancouver boasts a plethora of dining options that cater to those with a passion for nutritious meals. Let’s explore five standout healthy spots in Vancouver where you can savor fresh, locally sourced ingredients and nourish your body. Read on to discover a few of Vancouver’s healthy food spots to hit up! The Chopped Leaf Our […]

This post is about our favorite cafes in Vancouver to get work done at.

Vancouver boasts a vibrant cafe culture, offering a plethora of options for those seeking a productive environment to work or conduct business meetings. While the city is filled with cafes, finding the perfect balance between a peaceful atmosphere and good tasting espresso can be a challenge. With mid-term exams fast approaching and business meetings always […]

Tips on how to manage your time with the pomodoro technique

In a time when “hustle culture” is glamorized and work ethic is praised above all else, taking breaks to increase productivity can seem counter-intuitive. Pacing out your day to create dedicated moments of work and rest can greatly enhance your work experience. It also enhances motivation, creativity, and strategic thinking. The Pomodoro Technique allows you […]

Overhead shot of female entrepreneur working on her computer.

If you have the desire in becoming an entrepreneur and starting your own business journey, there are so many steps or reminders you need to keep things running smoothly, especially in the beginning stages. There will always be so much to do and if you are used to being a specialist in one area of […]

This is for a guide on tech accessories that free up your time. The picture is of a person holding a coffee mug at a computer.

With a world as fast-paced as ours, one of the best ways to maximize your time is by using technology so you can focus on the things that matter most. Virtual outsourcing through tech accessories and apps can help you get your work done faster so you can prioritize your relationships with loved ones and […]

This is for a guide on how to disconnect and recharge in December. The image is a person holding a coffee mug with a cozy blanket.

A woman holding up flowers to the sky. Learn how to get into touch with yourself

Sometimes when our energy is so outwardly expended, it can be very easy to quickly lose touch with ourselves. Especially when it comes to the holiday seasons, it’s important to find time to take a “time out” and look inward into where we can find slow moments to grow. When we take a moment to […]

This post is about Vancouver's top 5 activities and destinations to de-stress.

Amidst the face-paced culture we live in, finding effective ways to unwind and destress isn’t just a luxury but a necessity. Let’s dive into Vancouver’s top 5 activities and destinations that not only provide a break from the daily grind but also play a pivotal role in promoting mental and physical well-being. Sabai Thai Spa […]

© 2023 3R Media. All Rights Reserved  |  Privacy Policy  |  Terms & Conditions

Site by Sunday Stories

© 2023 3R Media. All rights reserved.
Read our Privacy Policy & Terms & ConDitions