How to Stay Positive After a Life-Changing Injury

For many, life is not easy. The majority of the time we can make it over most hurdles and shrug off minor bumps and bruises, but sometimes things happen to us that we can’t just shake. This can especially resonate with someone who has experienced a devastating injury that completely changed their life as they knew it.

Recovery from any major illness or injury is painful in every way. Mentally, physically, emotionally, and even financially, it can be a soul-sucking process, but it doesn’t have to be.

It’s possible to use this experience as a way to realize your potential, set new goals for yourself, and take back your power in a way that you never even thought was possible. If you find yourself struggling after experiencing a debilitating ordeal, this article is for you. Here are a few ways to stay positive after a life-changing injury.

Cultivate a positive environment.

What you surround yourself with will have the biggest effect on your recovery process. Create a comfortable space that will encourage healing, not prevent it. Keep important documents, medications, and other essentials close by to limit unnecessary movement.

Also, who you surround yourself with will also influence your recovery. The people who seem to have a permanent cloud over their head are no fun to be around, especially when you’ve just been through a traumatic time.

Whenever you’re feeling low, invite that friend who always makes you laugh over for a cup of coffee to take your mind off of things. Or, you can find those who have had similar experiences in the form of a support group. Meeting others who have been in your shoes and listening to their success stories can spark a fire inside of you.

Add value to someone else’s life.

While you’re taking time to heal, take a step back and look for ways to help others. Focusing your attention on others will take your mind off of the struggle you’re facing, and direct your energy towards doing good. Sometimes, it can be easier to push others than it is to push yourself.

Even if it’s different from things you’ve done before, most likely there is still a role for you in the community. Look for opportunities that fit your current mental and physical state and aren’t too strenuous or overwhelming. Volunteer with foundations or programs that support the less fortunate, campaign for causes you believe in, or join a Meetup group to meet people with similar interests.

Educate yourself about your injury.

Spend some of your free time educating yourself on how and why this injury happened. You may discover a weakness in yourself that you did not notice before and can find ways to prevent re-injuring yourself.

Learning about the causes and potential triggers are great gateways into discovering stretches and adjustments that will also bring you peace of mind.

Use your recovery time to improve.

It's important to give yourself time to recover. According to workers' compensation attorney, Avery Crossman, “Do not attempt to work through your injury. You will not be rewarded for your loyalty.” While you’re recovering, use this time to your advantage and learn new skills that you may not have had the time to before.

You can take an online course from an educational site like Udemy on a topic you’ve always been interested in or start that book you’ve always wanted to read but never had time for. You’ll be able to not only take your mind off of any frustrations you may have related to your injury but create new goals to work towards while you wait for your body to heal.

Face your pain.

Accept your current situation and approach it gracefully. Instead of solely relying on medication or other substances to help you through this tough time, introduce new practices into your routines such as journaling or meditation.

Practicing mindfulness in different forms can help you get stronger both mentally and emotionally, ultimately leading to a stronger body. Set aside anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes a day to let yourself get lost in your thoughts, either through conscious writing or simply letting your mind wander freely.

Undergoing a life-altering injury can leave you feeling like you have no control over your life. Fortunately, it is possible to keep an upbeat and positive attitude during this time. Surrounding yourself with supportive people and actively working on your mental and emotional state can make a huge difference. While this may seem like a major setback, it could also be a great opportunity to have a bigger comeback.