When life throws curveballs, we should take a four-step path to nurturing resilience and joy:
• “Hold yourself kindly”: It’s crucial to treat ourselves with the same kindness and understanding we’d offer a dear friend. Often, we're our own toughest critics, especially when we think we've contributed to our challenges. Remember, being hard on yourself only adds to your burden. Learning to embrace self-compassion can illuminate the path forward, helping us manage our feelings more gently.
• “Drop the anchor”: Emotional upheavals can feel overwhelming, like being caught in a tempest without shelter. In these moments, grounding ourselves—finding our anchor—can help us weather the storm. This doesn’t mean the turmoil disappears instantly, but it does provide a sense of stability, allowing us to move through our emotions without being overwhelmed by them.
• “Take a stand”: When faced with life’s gaps, it’s helpful to ask, "What’s truly important to me?" This isn’t about the things we can't change or control but about aligning with our core values and beliefs. Deciding what we stand for in tough times can turn our struggles into sources of strength, even when we can't alter the situation.
• “Find the treasure”: After taking the first three steps, our perspective begins to shift, making it possible to see and appreciate life's gifts—even in hard times. This step is about recognizing the beauty that exists alongside our challenges. It’s inspired by a friend who, in deep grief, remained open to love, connection, and creativity, reminding us that joy and sorrow often coexist.
This context is borrowed from the book: "The Reality Slap: Finding Peace and Fulfillment When Life Hurts", by Dr. Russ Harris:
Book: https://a.co/d/9BDVqRf