I specialize in working with people who have been living in pain. In our consultation they like to discuss how they got into pain, how long they have been dealing with it, and how they want to be free from the pain. As our conversation progresses I like to start asking questions about the things they would like to be able to do that the pain has been keeping them from. I will go so far as to ask "If you still had some pain, but could do all of these things you want to do, would you consider our time working together a win? This question might seem strange since their goal is to get out of pain, but after digging deeper into their needs and wants I learn the most important thing to them is to be able to do the things they love, which the pain is keeping them from.
These people in pain have typically been living with their pain for months, years, or even decades. The pain, while challenging, is not why they have suddenly decided to find a coach. It's due to the fact they aren't able to find satisfaction in life because they cannot do the things they want and need to do. Pain is the top of the iceberg, but the true motivation is under the surface. I have found many of them have been given cliche answers by their doctor, physical therapist, personal trainer, friend, etc. when they tell them about their pain. "Workout, don't workout, do yoga, take these pills, get a shot, never do X again," and on and on.
Helping them unpack their true motivation for getting out of pain is often an eye opening experience for them. Because it gives them hope and motivation to talk about being able to live the life they want again.
I'll leave you with this: Ask yourself, "What do I wish I was able to do, but can't because of my pain, weight, I'm out of shape, etc." Make a list of those things. Imagine, what if you could do those things? It's not too late.
“Man does not simply exist but always decides what
his existence will be, what he will become in the
next moment.”
-Viktor Frankl author of "Mans Search For Meaning"
Until next time,
-Nate
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