Chronic Pain Sufferers Can Benefit From Micro Goal Setting

Up to 20% of people living in Wisconsin suffer from chronic pain. About 40% of people with chronic pain suffer from depression. It can also lead to increased levels of anxiety. A new study from Edith Cowan University shows that individuals within this group who can adjust their goals have better mental wellbeing.

Goal Tenacity

You can define goal tenacity as being determined to meet your goals. It is the ability to hang on and work towards completing a goal when giving up seems much easier. Individuals with goal tenacity believe beyond a doubt that they will achieve their goals. They are just waiting for their body to catch up with the mental image of them achieving their goal.

Goal Flexibility

While people living with chronic pain are tenacious about meeting their goals, they must also be flexible about achieving the end goal. Instead of seeing only one pathway to reaching their goal, they see multiple routes ending at the same spot. Flexible goal setting is about finding ways to adapt to current circumstances.

The Importance of Setting Micro-goals

One technique that can be very useful to people with chronic pain is micro-goal setting. These goals focus on the present instead of worrying about what a person will do in five or 10 years. Since these goals are small, they provide a sense of accomplishment when met and can motivate a person to fulfill their next micro-goal.

How to Set Micro-goals

Determine the end goal that you want to achieve. Then, break it down into the smallest steps possible. Carry out each step as you come to it without worrying about the next one. Allow yourself to celebrate each time you reach your goal.

Chronic pain sufferers can often benefit from mental health care to help them cope with life’s challenges. If you are struggling in setting goals, reach out to American Behavioral Clinics today as we would love to work with you.