We've all been there. Stressed, upset, depressed, frustrated. Whether it be the "little things" or life's greatest challenges, these feelings consume us and often batters our belief that light and happiness will return. No matter what loop life throws me through, these three tokens of advice consistently keep my worries at bay.
1. Better things are coming.
This is the first phrase I turn to when I'm faced with failure, or things just can't seem to go my way. After struggling with a difficult "bump" in the road, remind yourself that there will be happiness around the corner. Or a new opportunity. Or a new reminder that you are worthy.
2. Come back stronger than you were before.
If there’s anything I’ve learned from my “lows," it’s that you cannot let your frustration, sadness, or disappointment control your (long-term) reaction. It’s okay to wallow in tears for a few days or have a grieving period.
After this time has passed, which is different for everyone, channel that energy into positivity and self-motivation. It could be something as simple as accomplishing a small task every day that you weren’t able to before. It could be trying again after you fail, even though there was a point in time where you almost gave up.
Whatever you choose to do, do it with more heart, more love, and more passion than the time before. Picking yourself back up is one of the most rewarding feelings in the world.
3. Stay grateful for life’s blessings.
No matter what your hardship or struggle is, you’re always surrounded by something to be thankful for. (Even though we don’t always consciously appreciate it.) Whether it be your family, friends, food, a roof over your head, or people who love you, there is always someone or some reason to be thankful. Count your blessings, and appreciate all the things in life you don’t think twice about.
And when all is said and done, it’s okay to be defeated. It’s okay to be tired. It’s okay to not “feel right” or “feel normal.” You can resent the ignorance in the statement “things will get better.”
When you’re facing life’s “lows,” face them head on. You are greater than the struggle you’re enduring, and these struggles do not—and never will—define you.
