Here is a simple process to become pro-active with your health.

Many people with an illness waste a lot of time on future events that have not or will not happen. A future event is anything not in the NOW. For example: I might not feel like going out tonight because I am might be tired (notice the words-might be tired).

I had a friend that was HIV (diagnosed with AIDs) and every statement he made was like this: "Let's go to the beach today because I might be dead tomorrow."

Starting today be aware of your words because they have power. Here is an easy technique to focus on all the good in your life and NOT on what may or may not happen in the future.

Write this format on a piece of paper:

Statement
Pro
Con
Turnaround
Action

Example One

Statement

I am always in pain. Pro

I have friends that always sympathize with me and I get attention. Con

I wish I could spend more time with my grandchildren. Turnaround

I felt great this morning. (NOTICE: I did not say, "I was pain-free in the morning" because that would still be focusing on the pain.) Action

Pick-up the phone and say Hi to your grandchildren. Ask them how THEY ARE---focus on the good and positive of other people. DO NOT talk about how much pain you were in before.

In addition after you have worked with one statement you can also take a sentence from your PRO or CON list and apply it to this format. Pick the ones that have the most "charge" or emotions attached to them.

Example Two

Statement

I have friends that always sympathize with me and I get attention. Pro

I feel like I am needed. Con

I feel useless. Turnaround

I get attention by listening to other people. (This is NOT about having a pity party and sharing negative stories. Focus on the good and positive aspects of the day. Take action and direct the conversation to a place of joy.) Action

I do things that are helpful around the house.

This simple process is easy to do and it works. The best way to starting using this process is today. Be aware of what you are saying and then immediately write it down.

To help you stay in the moment say, "I am healthy whole and complete and I love myself for who I am right here, right now."

Remember, be pro-active with your health and keep all conversations positive. Make a sign that says, "No Whining Allowed" to remind you of your commitment to health. People will notice you have changed. Focus on the good in your life and the beauty around you. Soon you will be feeling better, doing more and living a more fulfilling life.

Copyright 2005 Wayne McDonald