Many people set new goals for the New Year, but for people with cancer, making lifestyle changes can improve health and recovery regardless of the time of year. Living with cancer can drastically change lives and may lead to changes in priorities and goals.

For some, spending more time with friends and family takes on a special meaning. Setting goals, no matter how small, may help people living with cancer to feel more in control of their future and provide meaning to their lives.

New, personal goals may include eating better, exercising more, quitting smoking, and finding ways to reduce stress. Other goals may focus on relationship, spiritual, social, financial, and professional issues. Some find that "giving something back" as a volunteer provides a rewarding experience. One goal may be to talk more openly with family and friends about cancer, or to ask an employer or supervisor for a more flexible schedule at work to better accommodate doctors' appointments, or to volunteer to help other people with cancer. It's important to select personal goals that will build confidence and provide satisfaction.

Setting goals

• Set realistic goals that are action-oriented. If goals are too difficult to accomplish, then it is likely that you will become frustrated and give up.
  
  
• Set goals that reflect the shape of the life you want to lead. Focus on your plans, not the expectation of your family and friends.
  
  
• Take time to plan your goals. Don't rush; revise them after a few days or weeks to make sure they still fit your plans and aspirations.
  
  
• Prioritize goals to help stay focused and avoid being overwhelmed by too many choices.
  
  
• Recognize that new goals may be set at any time of the year and not just for the New Year.

Making goals a reality

• Have a positive attitude and believe that your goals are possible and within reach. You need to believe in your goals in order to make them a priority.
  
  
• Design a detailed plan that identifies the specific steps needed to achieve the goals.
  
  
• Expect setbacks and prepare for ways to deal with challenges that may arise while trying to meet these goals.
  
  
• Learn from your mistakes.
  
  
• Take small steps. Focus on what you’re doing now to reach your ultimate goals. This will encourage you to move forward, even if it is a long-term goal.
  
  
• Pace yourself and recognize that achieving your goals may take time.
  
  
• Take credit for success when you make progress or achieve a goal. Reward yourself frequently, so you can feel good about the effort.
  
  
• Share your goals with a friend or relative; ask him or her to give you encouragement to stick to your goals.
  
  
• Be flexible and give yourself permission to change your goals. If you don't have the physical or emotional energy to meet these goals, then recognize that it's okay to revise them.

Additional resources

American Cancer Society (ACS): What lifestyle habits should I change?

ACS: Benefits of Good Nutrition

ACS: Nutrition After Treatment Ends

ACS: Fitting in Fitness

More Information

Healthy Living After Cancer 

JCO Cancer Advances: Many Cancer Survivors Initiate Lifestyle Changes to Benefit Their Health (July 25, 2005)

Relationships and Cancer 

Cancer in Teenagers: Coping After Cancer

Last Updated: January 03, 2006