LCP Boot Camp Challenge Day 10

Today's boot camp challenge is a two part challenge - the first is to give thought to the negative impact chronic pain has had within your life. Write a list if you need to so you can see all the ways your pain has changed you for the worst.

Now...the second part of the challenge is to give thought to what you have done and what you are currently doing to change how your life has been impacted or changed due to your pain...and include too the things you would like to try moving forward.

The claim "I've tried everything", won't fly here okay? 

For example,

• I feel pain all the time - I will learn what soothes the pain - calming strategies, coping skills, therapies
• I've gained so much weight - I can change my eating habits and I will get some exercise
• I'm struggling with feelings of depression/anxiety/stress - speak with a counsellor and/or doctor - write a journal, join a support group
• I experience a lot of reactions to medications - I can talk to my doctor about changing and/or stopping the medications I take
• "I can't do what I used to do anymore" - I can change/adapt/modify an activity so I can - I will focus on what I'm able to do and not on what I "can't do" 
• I don't go out as often as I would like because of my pain - I can bring along the coping skills that work for me, I can talk to my friends/family and let them know what I need to help me spend time with them, I can rest before and after I go out so I am able. I can care for my needs without beating myself up for feeling more pain.

Take back the control from your pain. Plan for it. Prepare for it. Lessen its impact on your life by being active in your pain treatment. Challenge what you believe to be the negative results of your pain and challenge yourself to do something to change it.