What a month.
I’d known for years that total knee replacements were inevitable.
But not “today” … there’s lots to do; goals to achieve, opportunities to seize, challenges to overcome, clients to serve.
I kept going, delaying surgery for years… “The pain isn’t that bad. Knees don’t give out that often. It’s not impacting my life that much.”
Reality hit in February at a local Home Depot. My knees gave out. I was stuck; in more pain than I’d rather admit. I swallowed my pride; some good folks helped me to my truck and on my way.
I called doc. He said, “now or never.”
So, in the last 30 days both knees have been replaced.
It hasn’t been fun. I expected the pain, instability and reduced mobility; knew they’d improve over time.
The hardest part was unexpected…the lost momentum and slowed progress of priority initiatives.
I’m an initiator; an achiever. I need to make impact. Surgery and recovery stifled all these.
But it also forced me to take time and reflect. Here’s what arose:
– You can’t ignore the inevitable.
– Self-care and recovery are crucial. Focus on them, regroup and get back to business.
– Be “actively patient”. Small steps forward are still steps forward.
– Most people truly care. Let them in. Welcome their good wishes and support.
– Some people don’t give a crap. Don’t let them drag you down. They’re on their journey and you’re on yours.
– A “detour” on your journey is only a “delay” …unless you let it “derail” you. Don’t let that happen.
