Being an Active Participant in Your Own Healing
When you are looking to make change there are several stages. There is one where you don’t recognize the need for change. The next stage is thinking about making change, but not being quite ready for change. Which is followed by actually taking action and taking the steps towards change. This is the area that I want to focus on. The part where you take ownership of what you want/need to do differently to improve your life and where you start becoming an active participant in your own healing.
Some people are great at getting up and making radical sweeping change and sticking with it, but for must of us it takes a lot more time and effort. This is where all the sayings of one step at a time or one day at a time come in. You have to make goals that are attainable and doable for you. As you have success, increase your goals slowly and in small manageable steps. Give yourself a goal that is a stretch, but still doable. For some this may mean going on a walk twice a week for others this may look more like going to the gym twice a week to start with. For others it might mean walking to the mailbox and back once a week.
What ever it is you have to own it, make yours, and then dedicate time to do it. It also means using all the tools you have available for your healing AND being open to new ones. This can include better eating habits, exercise, therapy, yoga, acupuncture, massage, reading, journaling, ect. This also means getting creative with it. Some people get intimidated because they think they have to buy all kinds of stuff to get healthy inside and out. While it is helpful to have a personal trainer and meal prep delivery, those things are not necessary.
Getting creative means not letting road blocks stop you. An example is if you need someone to talk to about what you are going through and don’t have someone, therapy is there for you. Can’t afford it? Look into going through your insurance. Some employers have an EAP or Employee Assistance Program, that will give you 5 or so free sessions. There are often free or low-cost therapy services through community-based non-profits. The point is if you have a need, name it, and find a way.
Exercise is another big one. You don’t need a fancy gym or fancy equipment. Just some casual clothes and shoes and you are good to go. There are lots of open spaces to go for a run, walk, or hike. Can I say YouTube!!! There are so many different types of work out videos on there. From intensive, kick your butt work outs, to gentle yoga, and everything in between. Pick something, get a routine, dedicate yourself to it, and go!
The point is, to break down things into small attainable goals, stick with it, and don’t do so much that you get overwhelmed. Don’t get discouraged by road blocks and seek help if you need it. If therapy or case management can help you reach your goals, reach out for a free consultation and we would be glad to support you.