Saying No to Goal-Setting

This morning, I chuckled when I discovered my list of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) reprogramming goals that I set on May 14, 2007, the day of my first reprogramming session with Dr. Olga.

The only problems with my goal-setting were that I had forgotten that I set them, and I never shared them with Dr. Olga. I was afraid of appearing greedy (which I am). Despite saying that I would be happy with any progress achieved through DBS, programming and reprogramming, I wanted it all. I was worried about appearing OCD (yep – that’s me again).

By not remembering that I had set these goals and by not informing the person who was helping me reach them, I achieved far greater results then anticipated. This truly speaks to the case AGAINST goal-setting. So, here they are:

May 14, 2007--Kate’s Goals for DBS Reprogramming Sessions

• I eventually hope to take less medication, less frequently (e.g., every 4 hours instead of every 3 hours)
and have less “off” periods. This would allow me more freedom when I am outside the home to get home
safely.

• I am hoping that the medication and programming adjustments result in less dyskinesia.

• Less dyskinesia would allow me to safely play my accordion (lighter weight, reedless, no bellows) at my
leisure (no competing in music contests, no public performances).

• I would like to volunteer 3-4 hours a week at University of Colorado Hospital with DBS patients.

• I would like to have more energy (e.g., stay up until 10 or 11 PM and sleep for 8 hours).

• I would like to walk 5 times a week for at least 30-45 minutes.

Less than a year later, my new mantra is “No goals allowed.”