As we all very well know, life doesn't always go our way. Here are some things I've gathered from the times when this unfortunate truth is most evident.
How to properly process your emotions.
This idea comes from a Dalai Lama book I’m currently reading. In it, the Dalai Lama explains that as humans we experience emotions which are counterproductive to us achieving happiness and peace of mind. These feelings include hatred, jealousy and enmity. In times of hardship, these emotions naturally arise; however, they should be processed and then ignored. Will getting angry truly solve a situation? Will getting jealous actually get you what you want? The answer to these questions is no. Healing is dependent upon your overall outlook on an event. I can guarantee you will feel better if when these emotions appear you follow this simple practice: acknowledge the presence of these feelings, recognize that they are ultimately unproductive, and then consciously decide to not act on them. (If you’d like to learn more about this way of thinking, here’s the book!)
How strong of a person you are.
Life doesn’t always go as planned, and when it gets tough, you get tougher. In times of trouble, your innate adaptability manifests, and from whatever is affecting you, you’re able to grow. While it may sound scary to become a different person, whatever you blossom into is the result of something that was difficult, but in the end, survivable, and you should be proud of yourself for making it through.
What’s really important in your life.
Hardship makes you focus in on and narrow down the elements of your life which are of true meaning and importance. Whether it’s your education, your family or friends, or your health, even when life seems impossible, there’s almost always something you are guaranteed to fall back on. This realization is useful for future troubles, as you can remember what got you through your last trying time, and recognize that something meaningful tends to trump whatever is causing you pain.
Even if you're going through something, you should always make an effort to be kind.
Whatever you're going through, whatever you do, don't take it out on someone else. Be the opposite of your affliction; don't let it dictate your behavior, save someone else the pain which you are experiencing.
Nothing lasts forever.
While it may seem like whatever you’re going through is never-ending, remember that time will heal you. Things will get better, and, if I may put it frankly, having to wait for this better time sucks, but I can guarantee that one day you will wake up and be okay. I’m sure of it.
