List and Separate
When you are starting out on your mission, make a list. Grab a piece of paper to list as many pleasurable activities as you can. Think about the places and things that make you happy. Activities that you currently do and ones you gave up on because they seemed beyond your comfort zone should fill the paper. If you are struggling with ideas, consult with friends, family, doctors and online activities lists for extra ideas that you have not considered.
Along the way, you will begin to question yourself. You will think that these activities are not practical, so why even write them down? Ignore your notions of practicality to only focus on what you would like to do. Forget if you can do it.
Now that your list is completed, separate the activities on the list. Divide your activities into three categories: can-dos, can’t dos and maybes. The can-dos are the activities that you feel very comfortable doing in your current condition. The can’t-dos are ones that you believe to be far too risky to even consider attempting. The maybes are ones you are unsure about performing. They will require more information and feedback.
Anxiety and fear has a profound ability to make you misperceive and misinterpret yourself and the world around you. This is how anxiety gets bigger and stronger. Because of this, your lists will require feedback.
Encourage trusted supports to look at your lists as you review them yourself. Your doctor and a small group friends and family make a great team of editors. Be sure to weigh their opinions carefully while balancing your own hesitations.
Modify, Modify, Modify
Your activity list is set. You know what you are to do and what you are not to do. The important step now is to take the time to modify the items so that they fit in with your lifestyle. For example, if you really want to attend a baseball game, think about your process before your osteoporosis diagnosis.
Inspect and investigate areas for concern. Rather than being scared off, find methods to change the routine to gain success. Modifications might include making plans to go on a weeknight when the walkways will be clearer and calling the stadium ahead of time to discuss accommodations for someone with your risks. You may be able to acquire special seating options or transportation within the stadium to move you around safely.
This process will show that, although pleasurable activities can no longer be enjoyed in the same way they once were, they can still be enjoyed. You can go the places you want with the people want. Some modifications will be simple and straightforward while others will require a creative team of supports to accomplish your goals. The valuable theme here is to remember that the work and time involved is always worth the payout that comes in the end. Not trying ensures defeat and stagnation.
