There are mountains of restrictions that exist in our lives. 

Some of these restrictions are financial – we can’t all afford a live-in chef.

Some of these are physical – we can’t all run a marathon

Some of these are circumstantial – we can’t move to another city when my support network is here.

Some of these restrictions we don’t really worry about – I don’t think many of us care if we can’t be an Olympian high jumper. But there are many restrictions that DO worry us. Like not being able to get off the toilet without help; not being able to leave the house because of urinary incontinence; feeling lonely because you’re new to the village and your old friends are elsewhere; not being able to walk 100m without stopping; not being able to live independently. 

Unfortunately as we age, the list of restrictions seems to increase. This can be very discouraging and isolating. The reality is that every single person you see, every neighbour, every worker, even the hair-dresser and the doctor, has their own number of restrictions. You are NOT alone. We, as humans, are all struggling towards a goal. 

We all, however, have a choice to act. We can choose to lie down and let this worry consume and restrain us – which invariably will lead to more restrictions and limitations. Or we can take life by the horns and fight. Can’t walk more than 10 steps? Then how about walking 9 until that is easier? Do you have chronic back pain and stiffness? Then how about you start doing some daily exercises to relieve the stiffness? 

It is only through doing something that you can expect change. 

I challenge you to speak to your GP about things that you can DO to reduce or delay your restrictions. And then actually do them!