Most of us have been through some really tough times in our lives. A family member is ill, parents break up, we lose our job or a relationship, or we become ill or injure ourselves.
Unfortunately most of these events are beyond our control. I believe it is how we choose to live during those times that can determine how they affect us in the long term and whether we grow stronger because of them instead of just surviving in spite of them.
Recently my husband became very ill while in another city and it was four months before we were able to return home. I learned some life-living strategies that helped me during that time. I hope they will help you at some time in your life as well.
- Keep doing the things that make you feel human. Blow-dry your hair, put on your make-up, wear something nice even if you don’t feel like it. No matter what you are going through, these small daily rituals will make you feel more like yourself through it all. They won’t change your circumstances, but they can change your outlook and your attitude. It takes strength and courage to handle life’s tough spots with grace. Not losing yourself or "ne pas laissez-aller", can help you focus on the beauty in day to day life.
- Create new rituals that you can look forward to that are tailored to your new situation. While my husband was in the hospital, in a city far from home, I didn’t have the option to go home to relax or visit with a friend. So every afternoon I would walk outside the hospital, go for a leisurely walk on the university campus, buy a coffee, find a sunny spot and write in my journal, or call a friend. It gave me the time I needed to refresh and feel like myself again in a stressful situation.
- Read books and listen to music that inspire you and that provide an escape from what you are going through. This is such an easy one! Select some books that you have been wanting to read for a while and haven't gotten around to, ask your friends for their favourites, or choose a biography of someone you admire to remind yourself that everyone faces challenges at some point in their lives.
- Find things that make you happy now, not will make you happy later. Life is uncertain and none of us know what is around the corner. Don’t wait to be happy when you get that new job, raise, shoes or boyfriend. Think about what you need to be happy this moment, and make it happen! It could be as simple as dinner with a friend, a yoga class, a latte, or a long walk. Small daily pleasures are part of what makes up a happy life. Don`t postpone it!
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Durning Lemons into Lemonade.
This article reminded me of an important fact- enjoy life now and try to add little joys to your day, every day. Thanks for the reminder.
Mixing fashion, psychology and life lessons- what a great idea.
Am looking forward to coming back and reading more!