No matter what part of the world in which we choose to function, all humans suffer from the occasional emotional jab. Most of us have ways of recovering from simple trips, but when we are tripped over and over again and then fall flat on our faces and break our nose . . . it’s what I call an emotional pitfall. How do you recover when all the blows seem to pile on top of each other and drag your spirit down into the quarry of depression?
It’s a tough question that I can’t pretend to be able to answer. The answer looks a little different for each individual and each situation. Some people can just “pull themselves up by the boot straps.” If that works, it’s probably the most simple answer – to just keep going and let time bury the pains of the moment.
When the boot straps have ripped apart, though, there are other options. A stable non-biased supportive individual like a counselor or life coach can be helpful. Speaking our concerns to a stranger, rather than a trusted friend, empowers our natural ability to heal and find answers. Our friends want to help and having support is beneficial in the right setting, but can also sometimes hold us in a rut that is causing the pain.
There are temporary personal fixes to our frustrations as well. Some people find solace in writing, singing, volunteering, giving back to their community or loved ones, or exercising. There are even physical things to consider in the doldrums, like the do-good effects of sun rays, ocean water, and long walks.
Make a list now of things that lighten your spirit and refresh your motivation. You’ll be more likely to identify these outlets while you feel positive! Then, when the hard knocks hit, you’ll have a plan of action to go back and work through until you find the sunny skies.
What specific things lift your spirits and help you work through those tough times?
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