Creating Change | Chronic Pain Support Group
Creating change is hard for so many of us, especially when living with chronic pain. While we can’t always change our circumstances or how we feel, we can make choices each day that may help improve our quality of life. We also have to recognize that our attitude and the choices we make, along with our lifestyle, can influence how we move forward.
Making modifications isn’t necessarily a bad thing. I don’t mind goals or decisions. If you make a decision to modify something and it isn’t working, you can make another decision or choice to modify it again. In other words, deciding to change something isn’t set in stone.
“Just when the caterpillar thought his life was over, it became a butterfly”
Deciding what to Change
Deciding what to change can be difficult. So many of us are so focused on getting rid of or reducing our pain.
Pain can become such a huge part of our lives that it can be hard to focus on other areas and aspects of life. So take a moment to think about creating a change in your life or a modification in your life that will improve its quality.
Think about the benefits you would receive if you did this. Make sure to look at all aspects of how the change will impact you.
I think it is best to start off with a list of things you think will improve your life and that you feel you can change. Instead of focusing on what you think you “should” do, focus on what you “need” to do to improve the quality of your life. Make sure to create a clear and realistic vision of what you want to accomplish and make sure this list contains realistic changes.
Remember to focus on your good habits and your strengths. It is your good habits and your strengths that will give you the ability to make the changes you want to make. Changing takes time, so don’t get discouraged if your attempt to change doesn’t work out the way you thought. Remember, you are always free to choose to make another change!
Remember to always listen to your body and get to know its messages so you can take care of yourself early on before things escalate.
Key Takeaways
- Creating change doesn’t mean you have to change everything at once.
- Try to focus on realistic changes to improve your quality of life.
- Build on the healthy habits and strengths you currently have.
- If a change isn’t working, go ahead and adjust it and try something different.
- Listen to your body and allow your needs to guide you.
Organizations such as the American Chronic Pain Association also provide education and resources to help people develop skills for living with chronic pain. You can also find more information and resources on my Living with Chronic Pain Resource Center.
