Most of us have dealt with or are dealing with life’s challenges and seasons of difficulty. No one escapes tough times in their lives. Whether we like it or not, the most challenging periods of life often turn out to be the most impactful, and the times we learn the most about ourselves, others, and the world around us. The ability to stay hopeful during those tough times, however, is a skill, and one that is well worth developing.
When it comes to challenges and changes, much of the difficulty you encounter during the process will be based on your attitude around what you’re dealing with. Of course, simply having a positive attitude isn't going to make life's hardships melt away. However, sometimes by simply adjusting our thinking and taking proactive measures to look at things in a purposeful way, we can move through the rough waters much quicker, than if we allow ourselves to get stuck or swept up in the flow of our problems.
Here’s what I've learned about facing tough times and managing transitions, along with some concrete strategies that can help you to navigate the difficulties we're all bound to encounter from time to time.
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1. Accept the challenge for what it is…temporary
If you’ve experienced a season of trials and challenges, it can be hard to pull yourself away to look at the big picture. However, almost every hardship is temporary. This tough time will end, and you'll move past it. Keeping this point in mind can ease your mind and help you to think more clearly as you work to overcome your current obstacle. You'll be far better able to think critically and productively if you're able to be optimistic about the future.
2. Identify What You Can Learn From tough times
By seeking out the lessons to be learned, you can calmly face the problem. I don't mean to belittle or detract from the seriousness of anyone's problems, but I do believe it can be helpful to search for the value hardships may bring. Perhaps you'll find none, but many times you just might. Challenges often bring opportunities for change with them. Change can be scary, but it can also be transformative and exciting. Discover what you can about the situation, embrace any potential for positive transformation you might find during the tough times, learn, and then move on.
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3. Record the Experience
Blogging, journaling, or recording what’s going on helps you to process the experience and find creative solutions. When we get things out of our heads, we’re usually better able to deal with problems logically rather than emotionally. Also, by getting things out of your mind, you're able to clarify and make better sense of your thoughts and feelings. And you're better positioned to process events and to break them down into segments, such as to cause and effect.
Learn some concrete strategies that can help you to navigate the difficulties we're all bound to encounter from time to time
4. Reframe It
One of the best ways to go from bad feelings to more useful ones is to reframe your thoughts surrounding the emotions. The way you think has a heavy influence on the way you feel. Therefore, if you take some time to find a way to put a more positive spin on a situation, you will likely start to feel better about it. For instance, if you're nervous about going to a job interview, try thinking about the great things that could come from a new position, rather than what could go wrong. This strategy is so simple, yet incredibly effective.
5. Build a Support Network
Trying to manage tough times alone is a sure recipe for fostering hopelessness. A support network can be made up of nearly anyone. Brainstorm a list of people who might be willing to lend a hand when you're in need and identify the strengths this person holds. Perhaps your favorite aunt has a great sense of humor. She might be the perfect person to reach out to when you're feeling sad and need a laugh. You could also take a class on something you've always wanted to learn or join a group of like-minded people pursuing a particular hobby or social cause. Everyone needs to feel supported by people who get them, be intentional about surrounding yourself with people who lift you up.
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I know it's scary to face challenging and often unexpected seasons of difficulty. Hopefully, these tips have provided a better understanding of how your mindset plays a big role in how you handle difficulties. While you’re applying these tips, don’t forget that self-care and celebrating your little victories are necessities in helping you move through tough times.
Lastly, I encourage you to leverage every opportunity you have, to focus on finding and being the “light,” regardless of the darkness that surrounds you.
