Perseverance + Adaptability = A formula for long-term Parkinson’s disease success
Folks in the clinic frequently ask me if there is a formula for success with Parkinson’s. My feeling is that the formula should be individualized, however there are a few important characteristics. I gravitate to perseverance and adaptability as two of the important ones which can drive potential success with Parkinson’s or with other chronic diseases. Perseverance + adaptability is in my view, a formula for long-term success with Parkinson’s disease. Check out our video on perseverance + adaptability for long-term Parkinson’s success.
What are the brain changes thought to underpin perseverance?
Dopamine is the main brain chemical behind motivation. It is no secret that a lack of dopamine is a main finding in Parkinson’s disease. Scientists have shown that you can increase your dopamine by improving attitudes and behaviors, though less is known about enhancing perseverance in the setting of Parkinson’s disease.
How does perseverance impact setbacks in chronic disease?
Perseverance is based on setting goals and being determined to reach them. A person with perseverance must be able to have a plan for setbacks and be able to face failure without quitting. Psychologists have commented that having the right mindset can lead to the habits necessary to develop perseverance.
If you have Parkinson’s you must learn to overcome…
· Obstacles
· Failure
· Temptations.
What do we know about perseverance in chronic disease?
This topic was recently studied in persons with chronic pain at the University of Brighton and two themes emerged after multiple interviews. It was important for people to:
· To keep occupied
· To focus on social activities.
The researchers also commented on the importance of developing strong social links.
What is adaptability?
Nice image and article at skills-focus.org
Adaptability is when you can quickly onboard new skills as your circumstances change. In other words, flexibility when things do not go your way, or alternatively things do not go as planned. This can occur frequently if you have Parkinson’s disease.
How is grit associated with perseverance?
Some people have defined grit as perseverance + passion.
The psychologist Adam Grant has been quoted as saying,
Passion without perseverance is idle curiosity.
Perseverance without passion is a grind.
Passion with perseverance is grit.
Why should we add adaptability to our superpowers if you are struggling with Parkinson’s disease?
Adam Grant also says that sometimes “never give up is bad advice.”
We say, “if you have Parkinson’s, persevere but be prepared to incorporate adaptability.” -Michael Okun
Selected References:
Duckworth, A. L., Peterson, C., Matthews, M.D., & Kelly, D.R. (2007). Grit: Perseverance and passion for long-term goals. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology 92(6), 1087-1101.
Poropat, A. E. (2009). A meta-analysis of the fivefactor model of personality and academic performance. Psychological Bulletin 135(2), 322-338.
Sofaer-Bennett B., Holloway, I., Moore, A., Lamberty, J.Thorp, T., O'dwyer, J. Perseverance by older people in their management of chronic pain: a qualitative study. Pain Med. 2007 Apr;8(3):271-80.