Ten Resolutions for living with chronic pain or illness
1. I
realize that my condition has not been completely cured or
resolved by medical treatment, or the force of my will, by
waiting, other sources of help, or by deciding it's not
important.
I am prepared to accept this and move in a new
direction. Commentary
2. I
recognize that I need a positive relationship with my body
and symptoms.
I have seen that some of my efforts to cope
have not worked as well for me or others as I had hoped. I
am learning positive ways to live with this condition.
Commentary
3. I let go
of parts of my past life that are over.
I may grieve what is lost, but I am committed
to living well with what is. I face my
present reality with creativity and vigor. I
find new ways to make my life rewarding. Commentary
4. I
forgive myself for having had difficulties.
I recognize that I am human, and have human limitations
like everyone. I accept that I am
imperfect, and can fall short even with the best intentions. I
choose to develop the skills I need to deal with my condition and
help myself live as well as I can. Commentary
5. I build
and heal my relationships with others.
Where I have made mistakes with others in my
efforts to live with my condition, I am ready to seek new and
even better relationships with them. Commentary
6. I
forgive anyone I have blamed for my condition or for
mistreatment.
Forgiving others and letting go of blame, I am
free to move forward. I take full
responsibility for how I create the rest of my
life. Commentary
7. I
recognize mental and physical habits and reactions
involved in my condition.
Though I have tried my best, some habits are
inefficient or not good for me. I am committed to
developing ways of thinking and acting that better my
situation. Commentary
8. I
acknowledge ways my symptoms are reinforced.
Sometimes, whether I have been aware of it or
not, symptoms have had payoffs. I do not
need to to avoid or obtain things, protect myself, or deal with
other people through them. I resolve to be
assertive, courageous and honest in my dealings with the
world. Commentary
9. I
understand how I can become dependent in unhealthy ways --
on people, on medications, drugs, alcohol, on organizations, on
objects, on ideas.
I am willing to release these things and regain
my power and control over my life. I rely
on people and things only if they strengthen and nourish me.
Commentary
10. I am
ready to make hard but positive choices and to see them
through.
I am open to new ideas and ways of living. When
I have made these changes part of my life, I can also help
others Commentary
Provision of information on this site in no way
constitutes a professional relationship, and in no way substitutes for
medical assessment or advice. Use this thoughtfully, and consult with
qualified professionals before making any important changes in your
treatment plan.