Patience Vs Problem Solving
How to navigate pain in the 21st century.
By Garrett de Jong, D.C.
Humans are complex creatures with complex problems. Whether our problems are social, financial, familial or physical we tend to attempt to solve them in similar ways. When we encounter these complex problems, some prefer to “go with the flow”, while others seek concrete answers immediately. There is nothing wrong with either of these options… until there is.
Some issues need to be resolved before they build up exponentially. A “go with the flow” approach can seem appealing because you don’t need to do anything. However, in some instances, it can be detrimental. Sweeping your issues under the rug doesn’t get rid of them.
Alternatively, some issues require patience and take time to resolve. Being patient can feel like relinquishing control and cause anxiety. Additionally, when seeking immediate answers, we can be vulnerable to ineffective quick fixes at the expense of a long term solution.
When we encounter these complex problems, some prefer to “go with the flow”, while others seek concrete answers immediately.
Humans are complex creatures with complex problems. Whether our problems are social, financial, familial or physical we tend to attempt to solve them in similar ways. When we encounter these complex problems, some prefer to “go with the flow”, while others seek concrete answers immediately. There is nothing wrong with either of these options… until there is.
Some issues need to be resolved before they build up exponentially. A “go with the flow” approach can seem appealing because you don’t need to do anything. However, in some instances, it can be detrimental. Sweeping your issues under the rug doesn’t get rid of them.
Alternatively, some issues require patience and take time to resolve. Being patient can feel like relinquishing control and cause anxiety. Additionally, when seeking immediate answers, we can be vulnerable to ineffective quick fixes at the expense of a long term solution.
Author Brad Stalberg describes these two solutions as being on a spectrum between ‘acceptance’ and ‘problem solving’. There’s a time and place for each, but often we need a little bit of both.
At my clinic, I typically see patients who are seeking immediate answers (that’s why they make an appointment in the first place!). I am often able to provide short-term solutions with manual treatment and rehab exercises. However, more long-term solutions take time. Lifestyle changes, improved mobility and greater strength don’t happen overnight. Patience is key. I talk about the importance of patience so often that I have “Be patient and you’ll arrive quicker” written on my white board.
Bottom line, focus on what you can control: do the work (strength, mobility, rehab, treatment, etc.) AND be patient.
Thanks for reading!
Garrett
