The first step in getting the things you want out of life is this: Decide what you want.” Ben Stein
The quote above is such a simple statement, but so powerful.
As the new year began and we discussed goals with patients, it became apparent people don’t really know what they want. Most know they want to make changes but were overwhelmed by even starting the process.
Several years ago we changed our new patient intake paperwork forms.
We decided it was important to first ask about what really makes people sick: STRESS, we included questions on physical, mental and chemical stress.
Why? Stress is a huge part of our lives today. The World Health Organization says that a combination of stresses is what causes 98% of illness.
Our second page asks new patients what their goals are for their health.
We really want to know what patients want to obtain out of their relationship with WOW.
Every patient has wants, desires, wishes. They want to sleep better or have more energy. They want to decrease stress, hurt less, lose weight, quit smoking. But often, when faced with a goal they don’t know where to start or are too exhausted to make a change (stressed).
So, we ask our patients instead to think about how they want to FEEL. How do YOU want to feel?
Do you want to wake up refreshed or have actual energy at the end of the day?
Do you want to be able to hike or run or golf or play tennis or garden?
Do you want to feel strong, flexible, happy?
Do you want to feel like your “old self”
Focusing on what you want vs. what you don’t want is a great place to start.
Let’s make those dreams a reality together.
Dr. Julia Keiser
