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Hi, Reader!

You know that inner voice that pops up when you need rest?
The one that says, “You’re just being lazy,” or “Other people have it worse”?

For years, I thought that voice was just…me.
My inner critic. My realistic side. My tough love voice.

But it wasn’t.

It was internalized ableism—and once I started recognizing it, I couldn’t unsee it.

The guilt I felt for canceling plans?
The shame that crept in when I needed help?
The constant pressure to “keep up” even when I was running on empty?

That wasn’t self-discipline. That was cultural conditioning.
And it was eating away at my ability to trust myself.

If any of this feels familiar, this week’s blog post was written for you.

I break down what internalized ableism actually is, the sneaky ways it shows up in our thoughts, and how to start unlearning the lies spoonies are taught to believe.

It’s not about blaming yourself.
It’s about realizing: You didn’t choose to believe these things. But you can choose to question them now.

And when you do?
You start to shift how you see your needs, your rest, your worth.

But here’s the twist…

I’m not offering a miracle mindset fix.
I’m offering something more powerful:
Language. Awareness. And a way back to yourself.

Because the goal isn’t to silence the voice completely.
The goal is to recognize it—and stop letting it run the show.

📝 Read the full post:​
​Unlearning Internalized Ableism: The Lies We Tell Ourselves and How to Break Free​

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The truth is, you never needed to prove yourself to deserve care.
You never needed to earn rest or hide your needs to be respected.

And that voice telling you otherwise?
It doesn’t get the final word.

I hope this post helps you start rewriting that story.

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Talk soon,

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​ April Smith | Chronic Illness Adaptability Guide ​Owner & Founder of The Thriving Spoonie​ ​Email | Bluesky | Pinterest​ ​ Take control of your energy and routine—grab The Complete Guide to Daily Chronic Illness Management and start thriving today.

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