Can it be that Simple? Overcoming Discouragement

I didn’t know why I was feeling discouraged.

I might have attributed it to some recent situations that hadn’t gone as planned, (but I knew it wasn’t the events themselves but rather how I chose to think about them).

Regardless of the reason, the feelings of doubt and uncertainty caught up with me and I was struggling.

My husband asked if there was anything he could do for me. Without thinking of my response, I heard myself say, “Nah, I just need to believe I can do this.”

“I just need to believe I can do this.”

Thoughts are powerful and I was experiencing powerful doubt. And I didn’t like how I felt.

It was time to shake my doubtful thoughts loose!

And so, I offer you my process.

1. Pray

You may choose meditation or some other form of quiet contemplation.

Sincere, heartfelt prayer works wonders for me in breaking the cycle of negative thoughts.

2. Take care of basic physical needs.

Unmet basic needs are a distraction.

When I’m cold or hungry or haven’t brushed my teeth, my discomfort and self-pity grow. Take care of those needs so you can focus your energy where it needs to be.

3. Notice with gratitude everything that is going right.

Noticing one good thing often leads to another and soon the gratitude bucket overflows.

As I followed the plan that morning, my thoughts, words, and my actions soon changed from discouraged, negative and sluggish, to hopeful, happy and energized!

Try it and know you can turn your day around.

With love,

 

 

P.S.

And instead of feeling bad about the so-called wasted day, I recognize that sometimes going through those discouraging times help us be able to fully appreciate the positive days that follow.