Why medical (and other expert) advice often fails
We face a huge problem: Only 50% of patients follow prescribed treatments for vitally important health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease or chronic overweight. Another way of saying this: One out of every two people ignores medical advice when told what they “should” do.
Are you one of those statistics? If you have trouble following a doctor’s orders, maybe it’s not your fault!
Stress may prevent patients from following prescriptions and one-shoe-fits-all advice.
Stress short-circuits the best of intentions… whether at home or at the clinic.
If you are too stressed, too tired, or too preoccupied with daily energy drains – maybe you don’t have the bandwidth to add more information?
So what is the best way to manage stress and plug up energy drains?
Think about it… Who knows your particular circumstances better than you? No one else. Who knows your past victories and challenges. You do. Who carries untapped ideas in her brain? It’s you.
The best solutions live within you, the patient.
You are the genius to manage stress. Your creativity, ingenuity and intuition have always been part of you. Now is the time to help nurture that part of you, neglected far too long.
What does it take to tap into insights and creative problem solving? 3 ingredients to mix (at home or in a doctor’s office):
1 Tsp of free time: Mentally unplug from a hectic schedule to give yourself a little breathing room. -- Creative solutions need room to ferment and grow.
1 Cup of supportive listener: Someone who validates your thoughts and feelings, withholds judgment or personal commentary. -- Compassion and trust are your compass points.
½ Tsp of humor. Flick on the humor switch. -- Most people can think more clearly after lightening up.
Have you found it easier to deal with problems when you are more relaxed, or with someone who is? Does a solution come easier, when you have time to sleep on the problem?
With whom do you feel safest when trying out a new idea? I would love to hear your experience with this.
Watch for Part 2: Insight learning guidelines to prepare yourself for talking with your doctor.