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No Pain, No Change

For some strange reason, I forgot that my recent surgery required several weeks of physical therapy rehabilitation. (This in addition to millions of milligrams of Advil.) Somehow, I blanked on that part. I don't know about you, but when I conjure up a mental image of physical therapy, all I can think of is some sort of medieval torture chamber. Bodies splayed out on the rack, being stretched and twisted like pretzels - all in the name of health, wellness, and the entertainment of sadistic therapists.

Such was my mindset when I entered Physiotherapy Associates in my hometown of Centerville, Massachusetts. Even so, I realized there were a number of great reasons for me to show up for that first appointment:

My wife would yell at me if I didn't go.
I wanted to make sure I recovered a full range of motion following my surgery.
I wanted to restore myself to full strength and functioning.
Oh, the yelling.

Over the past week, I've come to realize that the world of physical therapy is a lot like that of goal achievement. Both involve important life-impacting objectives, pain, discipline, a structured process, and gobs of effort. The benefits of making both work are enhanced well-being and satisfaction. The consequences that come with falling short of the goal in either case are simply unacceptable.

The similarities don't end there. For example, the physical therapists who treated me are highly knowledgeable and skilled professionals. In many ways, they remind me of some of the great life coaches I've had the pleasure to meet and work with over the years. Their offices are filled with small plastic models that demonstrate how the ankle bone is connected to the shin bone (or whatever). These are great instructional aids that remind me of various personality tests, career preference inventories, visioning exercises, and related goal achievement models. Personal motivation is another common characteristic of physical therapy and coaching. Their walls are adorned with a variety of motivational posters listing success factors such as "Perseverance", "Success", and "Exit". (That last one may actually have been an exit sign, now that I think about it.)

Despite the similarities, I have to admit that one thing physical therapists have over life coaches is style. Colorful medicine balls, resistance bands, elliptical machines, and even some really cool play-dough offer hours of entertainment. (Sorry, coaches, but if you want to connect with clients like me, you're going to need more play dough.) Still, I suppose that you could lump "Life is Good" merchandise (or THRIVE!'s updated "Kick Ass Every Day" varieties) in the style category.

The most critical similarity I've found is that both require the right diagnosis, the right information, the assignment of helping exercises and guidance. And in both fields, the client has to do the work. No matter how helpful he or she may be, no therapist or coach can take the steps for you. You're the one on the table, the one writing down your life goals and an action plan to achieve them, the one giggling while you squeeze the play dough.

It's still your race to run, and your success hangs in the balance.

All of this leads me to an important personal question regarding my own situation: Do I have any doubts that I will achieve my physical therapy goals? In two words: not a chance. With my all-star staff at the ready, with my personal motivation and the level of effort I'm prepared to put toward achieving my rehabilitation goals - there's no room for any doubts.

I really feel that the road to recovery mirrors the road to personal achievement, and that's pretty familiar territory for me. (Plus, this time I have play dough!) Fortunately, you also know what it's like to apply yourself and succeed in your own life. (Even if it feels like it's been awhile or if you've still got work ahead of you.) Don't be intimidated by the process or the techniques. (I don't know what a clavicle is, but I'm pretty sure I have one.) You'll get what you need just when you need it.

Hopefully, you're not in physical therapy right now. But even if you're not focused on increasing your range of motion, you can still pick up a few pointers from physical therapists in relation to your own goal pursuits. Just take your time and push yourself without burning yourself out. If you're prepared to do the work and you always remember the end-goal, you'll be sure to find happiness and fulfillment in your life overall.

Whether we're talking about stretching a ligament or achieving an important life goal, remember that the pain is temporary but the improvement endures.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to find the green play dough.

Coaching Quickie: No Pain, No Change

Check back next week for results!

Last Week's Results

Coaching Quickie: Scrub a Dub
If washing your hands were the same as planning for your success, how would you rate your performance?

(08%) Power Scrub - I am squeaky clean, thank you very much.
(25%) Getting Sudsy - I put in the time to make sure I can get ahead.
(67%) Light Wash - I mostly go through the motions, and my effort could be better.
(00%) 10-Second Rule - Please pass the soap.