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If you’ve ever found yourself missing the person you were before MS, your energy, your confidence, your sense of control, you’re not alone. So many women with MS feel like they’re just getting by. But what if there was a way to do more than just cope? What if you could start thriving with MS?

That’s exactly what this week’s podcast episode explores. And it starts with a mindset makeover.

Your Thoughts Shape Your Reality

Let’s talk science for a moment. Research suggests we have anywhere from 12,000 to 60,000 thoughts per day, and 80% of them are negative. Even more staggering, 95% are repetitive. That means most of us are stuck thinking the same negative thoughts every single day.

The brain uses a filtering system known as the Reticular Activating System (RAS) to decide what’s important. What we focus on becomes what we see more of. If you’re constantly thinking, “Life is hard,” or “No one understands what I’m going through,” your brain will work to prove that right.

But here’s the good news. This filter works both ways. When you intentionally shift your thoughts, your brain starts to seek out more hope, more joy, more possibilities. That’s the foundation of a mindset shift.

Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset

In the MS community, we talk a lot about fixed vs. growth mindsets.

A fixed mindset says:

• “This is just the way it is.”
• “Nothing will ever help.”
• “Why bother trying?”

A growth mindset says:

• “My body can still heal in ways I may not fully understand.”
• “There are things I can control.”
• “Progress, not perfection.”

People with a growth mindset believe that change is possible, even if it’s slow or messy. They’re willing to try new things, adapt, and keep going even when it’s hard. And this mindset doesn’t just feel better. It actually improves outcomes.

Practical Ways to Shift Your Mindset

This isn’t about faking positivity. It’s about being intentional with what you feed your mind. Here are three habits to start shifting your mindset today.

1. Feed Your Mind Well

Be mindful of what you’re consuming, including social media, TV shows, and conversations. Are they uplifting or draining? Curate your feed to follow people who inspire and empower you. Start your day with a podcast or book that builds you up. You have more control over this than you might think.

2. Keep a Gratitude Journal

Each night, write down three things you’re grateful for. This simple habit trains your brain to notice what’s working. And as we’ve learned, what you focus on grows.

3. Use Affirmations That Resonate

Choose affirmations you actually believe. Don’t force toxic positivity. Instead, try affirmations like:

• “Each day, I focus on what I can do.”
• “I’m not alone in this.”
• “My needs matter.”

Start small and repeat them regularly. You’re building new mental pathways. Give them time to take root.

Paint the Picture of the Life You Want

If your brain follows your focus, the next step is to get clear on what you want to experience. Start visualizing a life where MS isn’t calling all the shots.

What does a good day look like for you? More rest? More time with loved ones? More confidence in your food choices?

You have the power to redirect your brain toward those possibilities. Don’t wait for your circumstances to change before you believe in a better future. Instead, start creating it with your thoughts today.

Mindset isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a tool for healing. When you shift from fear to hope, from autopilot to intention, you create a new foundation. One where MS is not your identity, but a part of your story.

And that story? It’s still being written.

Tune into this week’s special episode of My MS Podcast: Mindset Makeover: Start Thriving with MS
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