We all have those days. You know the ones I’m talking about. You wake up, and your throat feels funny. You get ready for the day, and your head starts to throb. By noon, you’ve got a runny nose, sinus pressure and your body feels too hot (or too cold). That’s when you know you’re sick, and everything you wish you could be doing comes tumbling into your brain. Then, and only then, do you remember all the things you forgot to be thankful for, when it’s too late.

Before we begin, I understand that these may be everyday concerns for some people. And sickness may mean more to you than the occasional common cold. If you’re one of those people, I’m truly sorry, and I understand your pain. If you’re generally a healthy person, then pay attention. Here are 10 things to appreciate when you're healthy (before it's too late).

1. You can move freely around your house.

When you’re sick, just getting out of bed can be a challenge. You may not be able to get far past the bathroom. Sometimes your body aches and you don’t even have the energy to go to the kitchen for a snack. And when you’re grasping for that water bottle that’s barely out of your reach, then it’s just sad.

2. You can sleep normally.

Getting to sleep might be a challenge for plenty of people, even when you’re healthy. But add sickness into the mix, and it’s almost a lost cause. You might have a pounding headache or you just can’t stop coughing. Medicine may help you feel drowsy, but often, you’re in for a long night.

3. You can eat/drink pretty much whatever you want.

Make sure you really take the time to appreciate this one. Now, I know some people already have sensitive stomachs and don’t get to eat or drink whatever they want. But most days, you have a regular range of foods you know you can eat without a problem. Sickness often means keeping a strict diet of bland foods or saying goodbye to certain liquids. When it’s really bad, you can’t eat or drink anything at all.

4. You can do physical activity.

Even if you’re not a gym rat, it can be wonderful to go out for a jog or do some light stretches. Maybe you like getting together with friends for a pickup game. Physical activity can be a great way to alleviate stress and promote wellness, but when you can’t even get out of bed, all you have are funny cat videos to make you laugh (until even that is too much activity).

5. You can work without distractions.

You might be like me, and procrastination is just in your blood. Or, maybe you get everything done days in advance, and just thinking about completing a task late gives you anxiety. At least when you’re well, you can decide when and how you accomplish your goals. There’s nothing like productivity to boost confidence, and when that gets taken away, the day just gets more stressful.

6. You can have peace of mind.

Sure, being well doesn’t automatically mean you’re happy, or that everything is going your way. You might be stuck at work, or stuck in class, or stuck doing something else you don’t want to do. But even so, you can still do it with clarity and sanity, without having to worry about your ability being compromised.

7. You can enjoy the moment.

It can definitely be possible to enjoy yourself while you’re sick. In fact, sometimes that’s the perfect time to relax in bed with some hot tea and a good book. But have you tried just doing it without being sick? It’s so much better! Especially when you don’t have to lose your place every five seconds to blow your nose or cough up a lung.

8. You can get out of the house.

There's joy to be found in driving wherever you like, hopping on a bus or sending for an Uber. No matter your mode of transportation, you can travel and be fairly comfortable. There’s nothing like honking your horn as the result of a violent sneeze (which I’ve done) or having to pull over in order to puke (which I’ve also done). Now, I’m not the most confident driver, but I can get myself from A to B. But when I’m sick, forget it. Unless I have to go out, I'm staying in.

9. You can enjoy others’ company.

When you’re well, you don’t have to worry about getting other people sick, or feeling bad when you ask them to bring you tissues (until they just hand you the whole box). When the time comes, either you’re bumming it out by yourself, or you’re in the presence of others who just feel bad for you. Either way, no one really wins.

10. You can be overall independent.

If you’re in college, out of college, or just a generally able-bodied adult, you can live your life without having to depend on others. You can make your own decisions about what you do, when you do it, and for how long. You can enjoy yourself, and not at someone else’s expense. Being sick takes those freedoms away from you. Isn’t it nice not having to ask for help for anything, or for everything? It feels pretty good, right?

So, when you’re feeling well, remember to have a little bit of gratitude. Not everyone gets to be so lucky. And before your next allergy attack, flu season, or whatever other ailment may befall you, appreciate the little things in your life that are actually really big things.