Fortunately, I have a great team of medical experts and teachers to support me. My teachers have made me the ultimate boss of my schedule - this meaning it can be adjusted at any given moment depending on how I am feeling. My aids have ben able to go to my class if I feel I have to skip it to recover, taking notes, handing my homework in, etc. My therapists are often available to massage me or stretch me.
On good days, everyone is coaching me to stay strong. Last year, it seemed I could only manage 2 weeks at a time, before I found myself sick. After passing my freshman year by the skin of my teeth, I finished sophomore year with great results.
My counselor calls herself my "cheerleader" now. She's been helping me set up a plan on how to get through junior year. I carry 7 mini calenders (one in each class binder), which I will use to check off every day I am present at school. I am learning how to communicate with my aids to lower the amount of panic attacks I suffer. I am taking in 2 weeks at a time, trying not to overwhelm myself by running full speed at first... then crashing and burning less than half way to the finish...
Always keeping in mind that I am the boss of my schedule and that, regarding school, I will not be pressured against my will, helps me stay motivated to continue seeing just how far I can push myself to go... not because I'm being forced, but because I want to. It gives me great relief knowing that my teachers are very supportive and it is a true plessure and joy to record and count the days I accomplish.
Pushing yourself is a good, healthy thing to do, but like everything, it's only good and beneficial in moderation. Through th support of my teachers, doctors, family and friends, I am learning to listen to myself and challenge myself, while realizing it's okay to take a break or ask for help from time to time.
By being allowed to work with my team, I have been able to start evoking a new version of myself... the improved version. "Wether you think you can, or that you can't, you're usully right." - Henry Ford
I want to encourage you to find your cheerlader(s), because everyone needs them. They help you first think you can and then that thought becomes a belief, just as Ford pointed out.