Embracing Energy: The Fine Line Between Acceptance and Settling in Physical Wellness

Hey there, wellness warriors! Today, I want to dive into something that’s a little different from the usual self-help chats about finding the “man of your dreams.”

Instead, let’s talk about something that impacts all of us at one time or another: our physical wellness and the fine line between acceptance and settling.

Acceptance vs. Settling: What’s the Difference?

First things first, let’s clarify these two terms. Acceptance is all about being comfortable with where you are in your wellness journey. It’s about recognizing that, right now, you’re exactly where you need to be. It’s that warm, fuzzy feeling of confidence that says, “I’m okay with this.”

On the flip side, we have settled. This is a whole different ball game. Settling feels like giving up on your dreams, ambition, and hope. It’s that nagging thought that whispers, “This is as good as it gets,” and you’re just going to have to deal with it. And let’s be honest, who wants to live like that?

My Personal Journey

As I write this at the age of 42 (and yes, I’m owning it!), I can’t help but reflect on some dreams I wish I had chased a bit sooner. But here’s the kicker: I refuse to settle! Just because I haven’t hit certain milestones yet doesn’t mean I’m waving the white flag. I’m not going to let my aspirations slip away just because I’m choosing to accept where I am right now.

How This Relates to My Work as a Physio

In my world as a physiotherapist, I see so many people who have settled into a mindset that says, “Well, this is it for me.” They might think, “I’m not where I want to be, but if I have to deal with this, I guess it’s fine.” Newsflash: that’s settling, folks! It’s like stopping your recovery before you’ve truly recovered.

Here’s the deal: many people believe that a few weeks of physio will magically fix everything. But real recovery often requires a longer commitment. You might need to see your physio on and off for a while—maybe even years!—to build strength and make lasting changes. And believe me, I’m guilty of this too! I’ve been known to think, “I’ll just do a few sessions, and I’ll be good to go!” But let’s be real, healing isn’t a race.

Finding Balance

Now, don’t get me wrong—I’m not a fan of overtreatment. You don’t need to be in my office three times a week, nor should you feel pressured to overdo it. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where acceptance and ambition meet. You can acknowledge where you are while still striving for more.

So, whether you're feeling like you’ve settled in your physical wellness journey or you’re ready to embrace a little acceptance, remember: it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Let’s honor where we are today while keeping our eyes on the future.

Stay energized, and let’s keep pushing forward together!

Nicola Robertson

Physiotherapist