Spooner or Later, it comes down to this…
Let’s talk about spoons. “Spoons? What does cutlery have to do with anything?” I hear you ask. Well, as it turns out, not much, except for spoons…

Most of the time, you will know these days are coming and you can pace yourself to minimise the impact. Don’t make unnecessary plans on the days prior to and after the event, so that you aren’t already in a spoon-debt when the day arrives, and to allow yourself a chance to recover afterwards. Yeah, it’s frustrating, even unfair… but it’s better than getting burnt out completely and spending weeks recovering, or worse – getting sick or injured as a result of overdoing things.
So, get your toolbox out, and add Spoon Theory. When you have a chronic condition, there is a lot happening in your body, so pacing is something you need to work on. Especially if you’re a woman (and even more so for mums!) – I hate to say it ladies, but society has taught us to put others first. However, that’s just not feasible when you’re dealing with fatigue or chronic conditions, so we tend to need to teach ourselves this skill.
I’m not perfect at pacing by any means, but I can honestly say that since making this breakthrough in understanding my own situation, and being able to help others understand it, my management of my health has come along in leaps and bounds – and my psychological wellbeing has improved drastically as a direct result.Life doesn’t have to end just because we have special bodies… we just need to learn a different way of living.
Share with us how Spoon Theory has impacted your life. Had you heard of it before now? Let us know below.

I’m Michelle, and I am a New Zealand born & raised, Aussie. I have joint hypermobility & orthostatic intolerance amongst other conditions such as Crohn’s & chronic fatigue. Prior to becoming significantly unwell, I was a young, active woman on a ‘career & study’ path. My health changed that and I now currently operate a small business from home, with the help of my fiancé, who has been my pillar of support & inspiration. I have learned a great deal through my illnesses and look forward to sharing some of those things with others. I feel like I am gradually working towards reclaiming control of my life and look forward to returning to social ballroom dancing with my fiancé and partner by the end of the year.