True or False?
We have control over what happens to our bodies.
True - if we need to exercise or lose weight, and we have the ability to do so. We will eventually feel and look better.
True - if we do damaging things to ourselves. We will hurt.
False - if we have invisible disabilities. With Parkinson’s or Crohn’s Disease - and many other chronic conditions - no matter how badly we want to get better or improve our bodies, it’s likely impossible.
True or False?
Our response to bad circumstances is our choice.
True - in most cases. Caveat: Maintaining a positive attitude in the face of pain or interrupted plans can be quite difficult.
Two Perspectives
Copyright: wollertz / 123RF Stock Photo
Years ago when I was recovering from my first injury, two friends taught me a vital life lesson: your outlook on life influences how you feel.
One painful day, I walked down the block to visit a friend who had a pessimistic view of life. I left discouraged and feeling the pain even more.
The next day - again a painful one - I walked up the block to see another friend, an optimistic lady. When I left her, I felt happy and I didn’t feel my pain as much.
So even though we may have no control over how our bodies are acting, our attitude choices have a tremendous influence on how feel.
Do we feel optimistic even though our pain level is sky-high or our plans have fallen through?
Or are we angry or discouraged or depressed?
We need to remember that although we often can’t choose what happens to us, we can seek to control our reactions.
Okay. How can you do that?
Evaluate yourself.
- Which attitudes are you already applying on those bad days?
- Which ones do you need to work on?
- Are there new approaches you haven’t considered?
Check out specific ideas and apply them on those challenging days. (Yesterday was a bad day for me, and I had to re-read this article!)
Emotional
- Don’t give in to the temptation to have a pity party.
- Think of good memories.
- Resist the urge to complain.
Spiritual
- Whisper Jesus’ name.
- Focus on God.
- Sing.
- Listen to music.
- Pray.
- Read the Bible.
- Lean on Jesus.
Practical
- Be sure you’re doing those things you’re supposed to be doing to manage your condition.
- Pamper yourself, if possible.
- Find something enjoyable to do while you’re resting.
Relational
- Enjoy conversation with a family member.
- Watch a funny movie with someone and laugh together.
- If you’re able, go see a friend. If unable, invite someone over.
There are many other techniques that will work to help turn a disastrous day into an enjoyable time, or at least a tolerable period.
