I have learned (the hard way, naturally) that in order to live a Function Centred Life, that I need to ‘manage my energy;’ a shift from ‘managing my time.’ It’s about balancing my personal and professional responsibilities, needs and wants in a more mindful way. Otherwise, I fear I will drop the ball, make a mistake, make a bad choice/decision or won’t be my chipper ol’ smiley self. All of which can and will affect me at home and at work.
As a result of following this approach, there are some occasions now when I have to say ‘No.’ And as a Type A, restless, people pleaser, with generally lots of gas in the proverbial tank, it is actually a very challenging thing to do. I have also discovered it can be confusing for others when they are used to hearing a ‘Yes,’ especially when they can’t see your Pain and you don’t want them to see your Pain! I constantly grapple with finding the right words to communicate intent and reason, without causing undue stress. To complicate matters, when I am having a rough patch, the ‘No’ may come during a time when I may have otherwise said ‘Yes.’
So what is this Function Centred Life? It puts me in the driver’s seat in living with Pain. And it took me a while (and a few blunt conversations) to really understand what it meant and what role I needed to play. (Here is one version: http://prc.canadianpaincoalition.ca/en/self_management.html) By working through this approach, I feel at least more prepared for the road ahead and more in-control (most of the time, at least!).
I end this post with a quote I happened upon which I rather liked: “Don’t allow your wounds to transform you into someone you are not.” – Paulo Coelho
Take Care,
Angela