Double-Trouble

"Houston, we have a problem." Thankfully, it’s not a long-term problem, just a few weeks. But, a problem nonetheless. Good thing is that I not only know the perfect Pitch Perfect (2) quote for this, but also, why it’s a “good thing” and mentally why it’s “a problem.” Well, at least I’m working through the later of the two components.

Pitch Perfect (2) quote: “Sometimes you have to break things down to build them back up again.” (Audrey aka Anna Camp). I’m grounded. As in, Fitbit friends and followers: the lead is yours. In my honor please go for a power walk or a run, hop on the elliptical, bounce on a trampoline… whatever. Do a physical activity to get your steps in. I am on doctors orders to rest. For those of you that know me personally, know that this is “a problem.”

Because everything happen for a reason, prior to my diagnosis, I had been reading the book Essentialism. There was an “interesting paradox” that struck me as the author was talking about a character who had an “addiction to achievement.” He wrote, “… for a type A personality, it is not hard to push oneself hard. Pushing oneself hard is easy! The real challenge for the person who thrives on challenges is not to work hard.” The character goes onto to challenge overachievers: “If you think you are so tough you can do anything, I have a challenge for you. If you really want to do something hard: say no to an opportunity so you can take a nap.” Yeah… About that… it’s a “good thing.” 

I’m not thrilled about the idea. And haven’t taken my Doctor's treatment plan elegantly. In fact, given my latest Fascination Advantage certification I noticed something about my behavior. It was dramatic. Why is this relevant? Because it’s a “double-trouble” zone. What does that mean? (In a nutshell.) It means that I’m tipping the scales on the great part of my personality, my Primary Fascination Advantage - my ability to connect with people through emotion - and being too emotional. A few weeks of rest is not the end of the world. In the grand scheme of life, it’s nothing. I’m being too fatalistic. I know.

Through my drama I’m saying to myself, “You can do this. Relax. It’s just another type of challenge. Plan this out. Take charge of this situation.” Literally, I have a document prepped to track my rest over the next few weeks. I’ve got this. (This is my Secondary Fascination Advantage: an ability to lead with command.) 

By combining the two advantages I avoid being overly-emotional about my situation and instead take charge of it with a fervor and gusto like none other. This is what one would consider to be where and when I am at my best. (Considering I just completed my certification and need the practice reviewing reports, here’s the assessment if you’re interested in a review.) Granted, I’m still not super pleased about my situation… but recognizing how my best self would behave at least brings perspective.

So, being my dynamic, inclusive, and engaging self, I am better able to focus on the fun stuff going on in my life… like our one year anniversary in Dallas… or our wedding anniversary… and that date of birth thing that people hype up all year. 

In short, my plan of attack to get over this chronic overuse issue is to involve those needed to support my recovery as much as possible to create the best outcome for my health moving forward… and enjoy dessert with a little spoon on my birthday.