Discouraged? How to Stay Up in a Down World

Looking at all of the bad news, tragedy, and hardship that floats through the world today, be it on television, the Internet, or word of mouth from friends and neighbors, there may be times where you feel overwhelmed and discouraged. Sometimes, you may even just want to curl up into a ball and stop all the noise from creating such a catastrophic uneasiness.

For many, the challenge of rising above the pain and discouragement of life is very difficult. Although you can not eliminate grief and disappointment from your life, the effective tips below can help you in your effort to stay up in a down world.

Live, Work and Relate Well!

Dr. Todd

How to Stay Up in a Down World!

1. Look beyond your circumstances

Whatever you’re going through today won’t last forever. You can rise above the pain and sorrow by focusing on the hope that better days are ahead. Optimism isn’t the opposite of reality – it’s just the best way to view it.

2. Focus on what you have rather than what you think you lack

A scarcity mentality discourages, but an abundance mentality encourages. Counting the blessings in your life and reviewing them daily will help you maintain a grateful and positive attitude.

3. Attend to the needs of others

It takes no time at all to find someone around you who would appreciate your help. They may need love, physical or material help, encouragement, time, etc. It’s nearly impossible to feel discouraged when you’re actively engaged in encouraging others.

4. Be true to what you value most

When your life consistently reflects your values, it keeps you from having to carry the heavy burden of guilt, regret, failure and disappointment. Stop and think before you act, and then do what you know is right.

5. Minimize the negative influences in your life

Your thoughts, behaviors and emotions are often a byproduct of what you feed your mind. By minimizing the negative people, mindless television programs, toxic work environments and discouraging news media in your life, you’ll make room for things that can bring real joy and satisfaction.

6. Monitor the words you speak

Words are powerful and can either build up or destroy. Choose to fortify yourself and others by speaking words of hope, optimism and encouragement. Mom was often right when she said, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything.”

7. Let those who have hurt you off the hook

It’s been said that holding on to resentment is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. Forgive, and you’ll feel a lot better.

8. Treat your body and mind well

When you consistently nourish your mind and body you will boost both your physical and emotional immune systems. If you can’t seem to kick a bad habit, get help.

9. Live in the present

You can’t change the past and the future isn’t here yet, so choose to embrace the gift that is the present. Make the best of today, and tomorrow you’ll enjoy the memory.

10. Know where you are going in life

Having a clear understanding of what you want to achieve, acquire or accomplish in life will help you to stay focused on what’s truly important. But, while you’re traveling through each day, don’t forget to look out the windows and enjoy the scenery.