This “Activity Decision Chart” pacing poster is a full colour A4 simple guide to the process of deciding whether an activity is doable or not.
 
It is a light hearted and effective tool for anyone with limited energy and/or long term pain, providing a way to help people understand why sometimes I can do things and sometimes I can’t.  which can be a huge challenge for those who live with a variable condition that causes pain and/or fatigue.
 
Available unlaminated with a satin finish, or with gloss lamination (Note: Lamination is not fully waterproof). Colours may vary slightly from those on screen.
 
Below is a description of the content:
Title:
“To do or not to do?” pacing and activity decision chart [blue header and footer.] (Note: This is a simplified version. This process varies between individuals.)
This chart has boxes with questions in – each box having a yes or no answer – which sends you down different paths to help you reach a conclusion about whether to do an activity or not (or to help explain your decision to someone else).
(Note: Most activity can aggravate symptoms, so it’s not about avoiding symptoms, but trying to keep them manageable. Trial and error is required to find this level, and it can change over time.)
 
Pathway 1:
Box 1: Given current symptoms, will I be able to complete the task?
Yes.
Box 2: Will it cause a significant increase in pain/fatigue/other symptoms?
No.
Box 4: Do I have enough recharge time between now and when I next need to function?
Probably:
Outcome: Let’s do this! (with a happy stickman)
 
Pathway 2:
Box 1: Given current symptoms, will I be able to complete the task?
Yes
Box 2: Will it cause a significant increase in pain/fatigue/other symptoms?
Yes/Unsure
Box 3: Can I make it more manageable by: splitting the task into smaller sections? using an adaptation or aid to make it easier? asking for help with challenging parts of the activity? having an exit strategy if it turns out to be too much?
Yes.
Box 4: do I have enough recharge time between now and when I next need to function?
No.
Outcome: Best not. It may be okay to do this in emergencies or on special occasions – but not for routine tasks.
(Copyright Stickman Communications Ltd 2024)
 
There are other permutations but this should give a good overview of the “Activity Decision Chart” pacing poster.
 
This information is PIF TICK certified and was created following our PIF TICK accredited information quality processes.
Information reviewed: May 2024
Next review due: May 2027