Reflecting & Sharing Who I Am
Reflecting on Your Life & Future Goals
Consider using these questions to guide your reflections and storytelling.
- How would I describe myself to someone who doesn’t know me?
- Who am I today, and how has that changed over time?
- What important moments, experiences, or milestones have shaped my life?
- What roles have I played in my life (such as parent, partner, friend, worker, or volunteer), and what have I learned from them?
- What values or beliefs are most important to me today?
- What spiritual, cultural, or family traditions matter to me?
- Who or what has had the greatest influence on my life?
- What personal qualities or strengths am I most proud of?
- What accomplishments or life experiences am I most proud of?
- What brings me joy or gives my life meaning?
- What hobbies, interests, or activities do I enjoy?
- How do I see the world at this stage of my life?
- What would I like others to understand about who I am?
- What are my interest and goals for my future?
- What are my health goals and lifestyle dreams? Where am I with these today?
Sharing Your Story in Different Ways
Recording your story matters because it helps others understand who you are beyond your health needs. Sharing your story in ways that feel comfortable and meaningful can help ensure that your voice, identity, and what matters most to you are seen, heard, and respected.
- Think about what you would like others to know about you beyond your health or medical needs.
- Decide how you would like to share your story. Consider face to face conversations, writing, taping, or recording, photos, or art.
- Create a “Who Am I?” collage using pictures, words, and colors that represent your life, personality, and values.
- Write a personal mission statement or list your top 5 values or beliefs.
- Talk with family members or close friends and ask them to share stories, memories, or traditions that reflect who you are.
- Reflect on what feels most meaningful to you from these conversations and activities.
- Place your finished work at the front of your Mywell Health Planner so it is easy for others to find.
- Create a poster for your room as a daily reminder of who you are.
- Take a copy with you if you are hospitalized for an extended period, so new care providers can better understand and know you.
- Share your creation with people who support you, such as family members, caregivers, care partners, and health care professionals—if and when you choose.
“Have you ever considered reflecting on your life story? It’s a chance to share who you are, what matters most to you, and how your experiences have shaped you. Take some time to reflect on your sense of self, your values, your spiritual beliefs, your cultural traditions, your interests and hobbies, and the people or experiences that have influenced you. Maybe you want to capture your experiences and thoughts in writing? Where you have been can be the starting point for where you are going next on your health & lifestyle journey.”
Tip
Consider keeping a journal. Learn why people keep journals to record their lives, feelings, experiences and more.
Adult Toolbox
Using Your Phone
Notes app to journal your thoughts.
Photo app to create a photo collage/album.
Voice memos app to record what people say about your strengths and talents.
Free sites and apps for meditation
Taking Charge of My Health with Mywell
Taking Charge of My Health with Mywell
As you read this list, think about which topics matter most to you right now. Then, check out the activities and tools in Adult Health & Lifestyle pages to get started.
Advocating for My Health & Lifestyle
- Do I know how to describe my health and diagnosed health conditions to others?
- What is most important for my health care team to know about me, my goals, and my values?
- How comfortable am I asking questions, sharing concerns, or speaking up for myself?
- How well do I keep track of my health information, appointments, and records?
- How have changes in my health affected my mood, motivation, or outlook?
- What coping strategies help me feel calmer, happier, or more resilient?
- Who or what gives me emotional support?
- How can my health condition(s), medications, and/or treatments affect my sexual health?
- What is important for me to maintain healthy and respectful relationships?
- How do I want to share my needs, feelings, and boundaries with others?
- Do I have answers to my questions about screening, genetics, contraception, and family planning.
My People Who Support Me
- Who are the people in my life who support me?
- How do I communicate my needs with others?
- What are my needs for privacy and confidentiality?
- Who have I chosen to make decisions for me when I am not able to do so?
My Day-to-Day Living
- How has my health impacted my daily routines or activities?
- What tasks or activities are now more challenging, and how do I manage them?
- What supports or tools help me live as independently as possible?
- What resources or services are available to me?
Where and How I Live
- Is my current living situation comfortable and supportive for me? If not, what changes would I like to make to improve my home environment?
- What housing options are available to me?
My Employment, Finances, and Cost of Living
- How has my health affected my ability to work or volunteer?
- What types of accommodations are available to me?
- What financial concerns, if any, do I have related to my health or daily living?
- What resources or programs would help me feel more secure?
My End-of-Life Wishes
- What are my wishes for care if I become seriously ill or near the end of my life?
- What traditions, beliefs, or rituals are important to me?
- What preferences would I like my family or caregivers to know about?
“Facing changes in your health or a new diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Start by reflecting on your past experiences, values, beliefs, strengths, and skills. Consider how these changes may influence your daily living, emotional well-being, relationships, sexuality, school or work, living arrangements, finances, and your plans for the future. Exploring these areas can help you better understand what you need and how to share your decisions with the people who support you. These topics — and many more — are included in the Adult Mywell Health pages.”
Tip
Not sure where to start? Begin with the Adult Planning Quick List and explore the topics that interest you. Take your time — this isn’t a one-time visit. Come back to Mywell Health whenever you need it or when new questions or challenges come up.
Adult Toolbox
Using Your Phone
Notes app for making your lists of topics you want to explore.
Contacts app to think about who you want to share your health journey with.
Calendar app to book some time to do your planning.
How to Use Mywell Health
It’s really simple – just by visiting the Mywell Health website, you’ve taken the first step in your health and lifestyle planning journey. There is no set order – choose what fits your needs. Many find that starting with ‘My Health Information’ is a helpful first step if you are facing health challenges. The activities and tools in each topic will guide you in creating your health and lifestyle plan. You choose how your plan is recorded – in a written health planner binder, on your phone, computer, or iPad.
Mywell Health is created for people of all ages and for those who are supporting them through health changes or challenges. It can also be a great resource or teaching tool for professionals. It is free for everyone to use and there is no hidden sign up or fees.
Step #1 – Scroll away through the different topics and choose one to get started.
Step #2 – Put aside some time (like an hour) to really dig into one of the sections. View the reels or listen to the audios. Read through the activities and click on the tools and videos to learn more.
Step #3 – Identify your trusted support person(s). Start having those important conversations with them about what you are learning in the activities.
Step #4 – Begin recording your findings and choices. Maybe start with filling out your Health Profile? Download the fillable PDF and save it to your cloud storage platform for easy access from your phone.
Congratulate yourself for moving forward on making your wishes known and recording your health & lifestyle plan!
