Are you the "If it's not broken..." type?

All too often I hear, "If it's not broken, why fix it?" When you're referring to an old refrigerator or an outdated computer, it's a valid decision to avoid investing more time and repair than the item is worth. Maybe you'll be able to squeak by until it breaks down. Then, at that time, you can throw it out and replace it with a newer model.

But when it comes to your body, "If it's not broken..." thinking can backfire. Sometimes, it is downright dangerous. Why? Because, just as with that old refrigerator, if you ignore warning signs, sooner or later problems will catch up.

Waiting until your body is truly "broken" might seem to be sensible, especially at this time of year when so many other things demand our attention. But in the end, waiting is counterproductive. If you address minor troubles early on, while they are still manageable, your body will respond to lifestyle adjustments and medical and holistic treatment more quickly and with positive results.

On the other hand, if you find reasons to wait--perhaps thinking that you don't have the time to set aside for appointments right now, or putting off worrying about yourself until that "other" problem at work is behind you--there's a good chance you'll actually be making the situation worse.

Delaying treatment until you're so exhausted or in so much pain that you can hardly function makes even a simple problem harder to fix. Why? Reasons include compensation injury, poor reaction to or resistance to over-the-counter pain relievers, and the physical, emotional, and mental stress of long-term pain.

Be honest. Are there areas of your health in which you are denying the need for qualified help and support? If so, act now. You're more likely to get your vital former self back if you meet these problems head-on, while they are more correctable.

My advice: Begin by paying attention to any health deficits you have, then work slowly and surely on at least one simple, healthful change in nutrition, lifestyle, or mindset that will help fix them. Here are a few small ideas to get you started:
- Try a new "good for you" food.
- Drink more water.
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Cut down on caffeine.
- Go to bed thirty minutes earlier.
- Eliminate vending machine food and bring snacks instead.
- Buy new sneakers.

Not one of these is a major change, yet the results can be life-changing. What other small steps can you add to this list?

You don't deserve to suffer. If you've avoided seeking help because "It's not broken yet," or if you're having a health issue that small changes won't address, it's time to get back on track. Look honestly at why you are resisting getting professional help and just toughing it out. Your well-being, happiness, and overall health are worth the effort.