Since my last back surgery I have been trying to create a schedule that will work for me. This includes, specific times to go to bed and wake up, exercise and therapy, and time to work on my dream, the Chronic Pain Coaching membership site and coaching business.
Before my debilitating accident, I was an over achiever and could fit many tasks into my day. I am not saying this to brag, but as a comparison to now. I have had to learn to give myself a break and have come to realize I cannot stick to a regular schedule. I still try my best to fit in time for what is important to me each day, but have had to learn to accept not being able to do it all on severe pain days.
Like you, I have days I wake up in pain, sometimes I can only lay in bed, read, write, watch TV, meditate, etc... Some days, I can get a lot done in the morning and rest in the afternoon, and every once in a blue moon I get the low pain day when I feel like there is nothing I can't do and I walk through the day with a big smile on my face. On these days people stop to ask me, "Karen, why are you so happy"?
My point is, if you are a chronic pain sufferer, and can't stick to a schedule, take it easy on yourself. I can tell you from experience, beating yourself up is not going to help the situation. Just do what you can and don't dwell on what you can't. Yes, I know, "easier said than done" right?? I still struggle with this. I got to work on my website and business today, but now I am in too much pain to do my exercises. Before my accident eight years ago I was an avid fitness enthusiast, now I am in the process of trying to lose 25 lbs from my last surgery and can't workout as hard or as much as I would like, so it is a big blow when I can't exercise. But, I know I have to rest. Tomorrow is a new day and I will do my exercises first!
If you are suffering with chronic pain, I suggest you create a flexible schedule for yourself and if things don't get done. WHO CARES!! There is always tomorrow. You are already suffering physical pain. Why make it worse with mental regret and worry? I also suggest not trying to keep up with your peers or listening to their comments when they are wondering why it is taking so long for you to accomplish something. They just don't get it!
LIFE IS TOO SHORT!! Do what you can and stay positive!
Karen
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