Given the political climate, it seems safe to assume that regardless of political affiliation and party voted for, we are all feeling stress and anxiety, and perhaps even fear for the future of our country. And this is in addition to the long list of challenges and worries presented by COVID-19. So, if you are currently struggling, hang in there!
To quote Zig Ziglar, “Fear has two meanings: Forget Everything And Run or Face Everything And Rise.” The first option might be tempting, but the second is the better approach. In my experience, running from problems might offer a temporary relief, but it is never the true long-term solution. Running away from fear, disappointment, and pain is a race we never win. They have a way of catching up with us. It might seem counter-intuitive, but the easiest way to escape these feelings is to embrace them. Facing challenges enables us to learn the behaviors that would configure the essential building blocks of resilience and mental fortitude. In a fast pace world with so much outside of our control, the one thing we can control is our choice to rise above and overcome the unexpected challenges that come our way.
Even in desperate times there are opportunities to find a silver lining. Hope and fear are two sides of the same coin. If we don’t want to live in a state of anxiety and fear, we have to choose hope. Uncertainty is an inevitable part of life. To struggle with anxiety and fear is part of being alive. It is our own built-in alert to physical or psychological danger, whether real or imagined. Fear and anxiety are the normal reaction to threats (to differentiate from the intense debilitating feeling that interferes with daily activities, which may require professional help.) Mindfulness is our best weapon against stress, frustration, and disappointment. Our strength lies in the ability to choose one thought over another. We cannot prevent negative emotions, but we can replace them with more hopeful and helpful ones.
The best way to this is to intentionally shift our focus from what we worry about to that which we are thankful for. As we anxiously wait for the final election results and worry about all that might unfold in the coming days, try and bring to mind all the good things, people, and experiences in your life. Focus on the blessings and the joys. And what better month than November, National Gratitude Month? Here’s how to move from gloomful to grateful when you feel overwhelmed:
Self- assessment: ask what things you are thankful for this year.
Self-care: ask what actions you can take to fill up your happiness tank.
Self- extension: ask how you can be helpful, show generosity and extend kindness to others.
Gratitude starts from within. Make it a habit to appreciate every good thing in your life no matter how small. Helping others has a positive impact on our own well-being. Take care of yourself and your family. Find your own unique way to make a difference in the lives of those around you and your community. Plant the seed of positivity and hope. Small actions can have far-reaching effects.
Limit your news intake and expand your gratitude. Perhaps make plans to be proactively grateful and make thanks and giving happen?
If you are looking for inspiration, check out Daily Reflection in November: Gratitude
Comments