Transcending Adversity
When life gets fuzzy and decisions are elusive, or hope and joy go absent altogether, consider these 10 moves:
1. Read or listen. Find someone who guides people through your type of struggle. You’re likely to glean at least one good idea.
2. Take a nap. You never know what solutions might be brewing in your subconscious.
3. Find three things for which you are grateful. Recycle if necessary with old blessings. This is an instant mood changer and perspective builder.
4. Take a walk. It’s unlikely that you’ll come back feeling the same way you did when you left, plus ideas flow when you’re walking more than when you’re sitting.
5. Repeat it till you receive it. Locate a favorite quote, scripture, or saying and repeat it till you believe it and receive it.
6. Strategize. Get a blank sheet of paper (or better yet a dry erase board) and start writing out pros and cons, next steps, etc.
7. Ask someone who’s been there. Buy someone a coffee or a meal and ask them how they did it or got through it. I’ve done this multiple times. People are glad to give some guidance.
8. Breathe. Stop the madness. Just breathe in and out for as long as you need.
9. Play worst case scenario. What’s the worst that could happen with various choices? Define these and determine to do better.
10. Play best case scenario. What’s the best that could happen? Count the cost and plan the steps that might be necessary, but remember that good and even great things are also possible.
Naturally, the situation you are dealing with has a lot to do with which ones of these are most appropriate, but make a move in the right direction when you’re in doubt. You can do it!
Worth Repeating
When in doubt, tell the truth.
-Mark Twain
