As the year comes to a close, December is a natural pause point to look back before planning ahead. At DOC Pain Management, patients are encouraged to notice how far they have come this year, even if pain is still part of daily life. Grab a journal or a simple notebook to jot down thoughts. This small act of writing can make reflections feel more concrete and powerful. This is a moment to notice how far you have come this year, even if pain is still part of your daily life.
Looking Back With Compassion
Reflection starts with self‑compassion, not criticism. Instead of asking “Why am I not further along?” patients can ask “What did I carry myself through this year?” Appointments, procedures, flares, family responsibilities, and work, all while managing pain.
Helpful questions for year‑end reflection include:
What was the hardest moment with pain this year, and how did I show up for myself anyway?
When did I advocate for myself by asking questions, seeking a second opinion, or trying a new treatment?
What did I learn about my body, limits, and strengths?
Noticing Small but Real Wins
Progress in pain management is often subtle and easy to overlook. A “win” might be walking a bit farther, recovering faster after a flare, using pacing instead of pushing through, or feeling less fearful of movement.
Patients can take a few minutes to list:
Three things that became even slightly easier this year
One flare they handled better than in the past
One supportive routine they stuck with more often than not (like stretching, better sleep, or relaxation)
Honoring What Didn’t Go as Planned
Reflection also makes space for grief, frustration, or goals that did not happen. Acknowledging disappointments helps patients and clinicians understand what needs to change going forward, whether that is adjusting medications, adding procedures, or strengthening coping strategies.
Patients might ask:
Which strategies did not fit my life or my pain pattern?
Where did I feel stuck, overwhelmed, or alone?
What kind of support do I wish I had asked for sooner?
Letting Reflection Shape the New Year
By the time January arrives, this kind of mid‑December reflection can already point toward more meaningful resolutions. Instead of starting from “What should my goals be?”, patients can start from
What mattered most to me this year, and how can I build on that?
Bringing these reflections to the next DOC Pain Management visit allows the care team to partner with patients in turning insights into a realistic plan for the year ahead—one that honors both the challenges of chronic pain and the quiet strength it takes to keep moving forward.
