What’s your pain threshold and tolerance?

They are not the same…

Today’s post is inspired by a question I was asked. Thanks!

People often say that they have a high pain threshold.

Usually they mean how much they can bear.

I have a high pain threshold, they say.

They are trying to demonstrate an ability to handle their pain.

Reinforcing it to themselves.

It’s a strategy.

But what they really mean is their tolerance.

Threshold is a physiological level that all humans share.

This changes according to a range of circumstances — a very complex dynamic of past experiences, learning, chemistry and more.

Tolerance is also changeable.

Because each moment is different and new.

Tolerance refers to what is manageable in that moment.

Influenced by circumstances, context, other people, beliefs, expectations, outlook and more.

You can see from this brief insight how many ways you can positively shape your experiences going forward.

There is only going forward.

I hope that is helpful.

r.s.