Life often throws us curveballs, and one of those moments can come when we receive the results of a physical test that are not what we were hoping for. Whether it’s a medical checkup, fitness assessment, or any other type of physical test, an unexpected outcome can be disheartening. If you’re in that place right now, remember this: it’s okay to feel disappointed, but it’s even more important finding strength in the struggle.
Over the past few weeks I have been consumed with chronic pain following surgery in July. Eventually I made the decision to see my physician to determine if all was well inside. The phone call from my doctor explaining that my internal fixation etc had indeed moved and needed further surgery came as a complete shock. To top that, infection and inflammation markers were elevated. The outcome of the results were definitely not what I had expect and I can admit that my initial reaction was disappointment. However, wallowing in despair will get me nowhere and like so many times before I need to regroup and forge on through the process of healing.
Here are some of my thoughts to navigate through this experience and come out stronger:
Acknowledge Your Emotions

It’s natural to feel a range of emotions—frustration, sadness, confusion, or even anger. Instead of pushing these feelings away, give yourself permission to acknowledge them. It’s okay to not be okay for a moment, just don’t get stuck in those feelings.
Accepting how you feel is the first step toward healing and moving forward.
Focus on What You can Control
While you can’t change the outcome of the test, you can control how you respond to it. Take a deep breath and focus on the things within your power: your attitude, your actions, and your perspective. I can’t change the fact that some of the spacers in my back have moved, but what I can control is planning the next steps to have it corrected.
Use this moment to redirect your energy toward positive changes that will bring you closer to your goals.
Learn From the Experience

I struggle with this one! The question often pops up into mind about what else I am supposed to learn…and on very bad days I may even dwell on the question why someone else cannot learn the lesson instead of me. Past experiences have taught me though, that this kind of thinking is a waste of time and on a philosophical level…why not me?
I find that it works for me to think of my test results as feedback, not failure. Every experience, even the ones that don’t go as planned, teaches us something valuable. Ask yourself: What can I learn from this? How can I use this information to grow, improve, or make better decisions for my health and well-being?
Let this be a stepping stone rather than a stumbling block.
Reach Out for Support

There is no way that I would ever have managed to get through the past 25 years – especially during the challenging – times without my support system. Family, friends and medical professionals have played an invaluable part in every recovery process and I feel truly blessed to have them in my life.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Share your thoughts and feelings with loved ones, friends, or a support group. Sometimes, just talking about your experience with someone who understands can make a world of difference. If your results were health-related, consider reaching out to a professional who can guide you on the next steps.
Celebrate Your Efforts, Not Just the Results
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that success is defined by a particular outcome, but the truth is, the journey matters just as much as the destination. Take a moment to acknowledge all the hard work, dedication, and effort you put into getting to this point.
Celebrate the progress you’ve made, no matter how small.
Set New Goals

Use the “setback” as a reset. Reflect on your current goals and think about setting new ones that are realistic and achievable. Break them down into smaller steps, and remember that progress is progress, no matter how slow.
Setting new goals can help you regain a sense of purpose and motivation.
Keep Moving Forward
If there’s one thing I have learnt over the years, it is that the journey doesn’t end with a single test result; it’s just one chapter in a much bigger story. Keep moving forward, one step at a time.
Remember that setbacks are temporary, but the strength you gain from overcoming them lasts a lifetime.
Finding Strength in the Struggle

It’s not the outcome that defines us but how we respond to it. You are stronger than you think, and this experience is part of a journey that will lead you to a better, healthier version of yourself. When things don’t go as planned, it’s okay to pause, reflect, and regroup—but never give up.
So, when life doesn’t go the way you hoped, take a moment to gather your thoughts, find your inner strength, reset and remember that every setback is an opportunity for a greater comeback. Keep believing in yourself and the power of perseverance.
I’ve got this…You’ve got this!