Finding Courage and Overcoming Fear with Chronic Illness: Lessons from Tamara K. Anderson (and My Journey with MS)
When you’re diagnosed with a chronic illness, fear can show up almost overnight. I remember the day I was told I had multiple sclerosis. My world tilted. Suddenly, the certainty I had about my body and my future slipped through my fingers. Fear took so many forms:...
4 Key Indicators You Need Mindfulness to Navigate Life’s Chaos
Life doesn’t always unfold in neat, predictable patterns. Sometimes it feels like gardening in a windstorm: you plant seeds of intention, but the gusts knock them over and fling dirt into your eyes. If you’ve ever felt like you’re hanging onto a frayed rope while the...
The Power of Persistence When Life is a Struggle
Dreams are beautiful beginnings. They often arrive with a spark—an idea, a longing, a vision that lights something inside us. But inspiration, as lovely as it is, isn’t enough to carry a dream to life. That’s where persistence comes in. Persistence is what fuels the...
Stories of Hope in Hard Times
How do you get through hard times? I share some some of the struggles I’ve dealt with and tips for getting through them.on the podcast Stories of Hope in Hard Times by host Tamara K Anderson. You can watch it below, listen to it below, on Tamara’s website...
Lower Stress Level With These Five Simple Strategies {With Infographic}
Do you want to lower your stress level? Has the pressure of everyday life started to feel overwhelming? The hustle and bustle of daily responsibilities often create stress. And if you’re anything like me, you might find yourself saying yes to far too many things you...About Cultivate an Exceptional Life
This site was created especially for those living with chronic illness—a space filled with encouragement, practical tools, and uplifting resources to help you navigate life with greater hope and intention.
Here, you’ll find inspiration to support your healing, nurture your spirit, and empower you to build a life that feels purposeful and beautifully your own—even in the midst of struggle.
Together, we’ll explore new paths, grow through what we face, and cultivate an exceptional life—one that honors your journey every step of the way.
Meet Leisa Watkins
Founder of Cultivate an Exceptional Life, Leisa lives with multiple chronic illnesses. She has been diagnosed with, multiple sclerosis, ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, chronic Lyme disease, PTSD, and a connective tissue disorder. Her journey through personal and family health challenges has shaped a deep understanding of resilience, compassion, and the power of intentional living. Through this platform, she shares insights, tools, and inspiration to help others living with chronic illness cultivate strength, purpose, and joy—no matter what life brings.
This is my favorite meal planning tool.
