Episode 223: Jen Singer

Being sick is hard. And perfectionism can make it even harder. In this episode Shannon and Janine talk with Jen Singer medical writer and author of the Just Diagnosed Guides. Jen has had her share of illnesses and she has used her extensive experience as a medical writer and a sick person to help other people diagnosed with illness, as well the people who care about them. Jen also shares how being ill helped cure her perfectionism! Discussion topics include: • The journey that led Jen to helping people who are sick and those who care for them Jen's Just Diagnosed Guides • Jen's mission to take the loneliness out of illness • Janine's experience as the caregiver to a heart patient • Why googling your medical condition isn't a great idea • How Jen learned the hard way to let go of perfectionism when she was ill the first time • Energy triage • Living with a chronic disease • Jen's advice on figuring out how you want to spend your time • The importance of self care and how the pandemic might have made it easier • Supporting someone with an acute illness vs a chronic one • The thing to say to a sick person: "How is it for you today?" (And then listen) • What NOT to say to a sick person • "It's not enough to mean well. Do better." • More about how being sick cured Jen of perfectionism • The physical consequences of perfectionism • Resisting googling a diagnosis • Letting go of perfectionism if you're a caregiver • The Circles of Grief Visit the show notes at www.gettingtogoodenough.com for links!