I am a planner. I absolutely love to plan. At the same time I can find it overwhelming when I see an abundance of things that I need and want to do. When I began ill, I saw so many of my weaknesses, that I wanted to fix right away. Unfortunately I couldn’t control my health problems, or make myself well. When I tried to do things the old way, I felt like a failure. I couldn’t finish the tasks I laid out at hand. I wanted to know it all, right now, and find the solution to heal myself. When I saw that I was in this for the long hall, I realized it might work better to prioritize the first things first, and then like building blocks, I would lay the foundation for my new life regardless of what my health would bring.
The most important part of planning is to know your own vision of what you want for your life. I did this by journaling about what I wanted, thinking about what I would do if I only had a year to live, and making lists of my dreams and values.
My Vision
A meaningful life is one where I follow my values, build relationships, and make a difference in the lives of people around me. It is living life to its fullest. It is enjoying the journey, learning from the hardships, growing and changing in my surroundings, and making the most of each situation. It is learning how to feel all my emotions, not hiding from the truth, but embracing the truth, and allowing it to transform who I am. It is walking in relationship with my creator and with my loved ones. Learning how to love and be loved by God, where I extend this love to those in my path. It is learning what it means to be in His grace and truth. I am aware of my strengths, and utilize them in my personal and professional life. I am constantly growing and learning, setting goals, taking risks and picking myself up when mistakes are made. I live a life of thanksgiving, through my blessings, I give to others. Constantly looking for the gold in all situations and people yet acknowledging the pain that can make life challenging.
My Mission statement:
I will strive for growth, healing and deeper spirituality, where I can truly love God and others, giving joy, grace, and peace to those I meet.
My Values List
- To connect with my God, and allow the Spirit to work in me, to respect spirituality (or lack of) in myself and others
- To have a healthy and intimate relationships with my husband and children
- Be a good example, live what I speak
- Live a life of integrity and honesty
- Having fun and enjoying life
- Making a difference in the world
- Having deep relationships with others
- Love and grace
- Being fit and healthy
- To feel deep emotions and take in each moment
- Self respect
- Learning and growing
- Being able to say I am sorry
- Humor and laughter
- Honesty
Chronic Pain Journals 