Are you ready to make a positive change in your life?
Everyone will answer a resounding “YES”! However, are you really ready?
Shortly after my stroke, I would say “I am ready to move forward and make the necessary changes” in order to see some positive results in life, but then, I wouldn’t do anything about it.
WHY DOES THIS HAPPEN?
One of the biggest issues is that we set huge goals, instead of making realistic, day to day progress and having checkpoints to keep us on track. Due to the size of it, we are overwhelmed and decide not to do anything. Instead of doing a little bit each day to get better, we try some big feat and quickly get discouraged. On goes the cycle!
This is going to take time, and the “Little Wins” will help you move forward.
Another issue; It is easy for us to play the “Woe is me” card after having a stroke.
I couldn’t get the words out that I wanted and I felt weird because of the change in looks, walking differently, being upset about almost everything…on and on. But remember, ALL PEOPLE go through tough times in life, and most everyone is focused on the most important person they know…THEMSELVES! This isn’t a bad thing…it’s just the way of the world.
Acknowledge this (albeit internally), it will help you understand where others’ are coming from and get over the feeling that you are the only one going through challenges.
Once you make a decision to move forward, you will be tested. I don’t know why this is, but it is true. You are not the only one this is happening to. You can find many examples showing people being challenged once they make a decision. Our brains like the status quo, and you are going to make it perform better.
Be prepared and welcome it!
It is going to take work, but the changes will be positive. You will look back in a few years, and not even recognize the difference.
You will be more confident. Talking to others and not questioning everything you say is huge.
Your abilities will increase. People will recognize how self-assured you are.
Your knowledge will grow. It will be exciting to continue to learn.
Don’t worry about being perfect. Just get started!
The truth is that it takes dedicated perseverance to obtain results after having a stroke. You must ask yourself if you are willing to put in the hard work, time, and actions needed to change.
Set some realistic goals. Track them. Get some positive results. Then move on!
Committed to YOUR Recovery!
Keith