Staying Positive in Tough Times

Most of us can agree that positive thinking is important. It tends to make us feel better, be more productive, and reduces stress.

The problem is, our lives aren’t always rosy.

Crises happen – be it on a personal level or something more widespread like the Coronavirus. Everyone is scared and the chaos going on in our world leaves us feeling fragile and ill equipped to deal with it.

That reality is a part of everyone’s life now, and it makes keeping your spirits up tough. But this is a time to demonstrate good habits and lead from the heart.

If you are struggling to stay positive and hopeful when going through tough times as these, try following these tips.

Don’t Put Your Head in the Sand

No matter what you are dealing with, ignoring it is rarely the answer. While ignoring problems might feel good in the short-term, it will sap your long-term positivity. Acknowledging your situation is the first step of action you need to take.

It’s amazing how your mind will then kick in on finding solutions vs having the woe is me attitude.

This Too Shall Pass

I know this is cliche but it’s true. When you are in the midst of a crisis, it is nearly impossible to keep things in perspective. That said, you need to recognize that your circumstances are temporary. Things might seem dire at the moment, but try your best to remember that “this too shall pass.”

I’m not trivializing the seriousness of what we are going through and that for some there will be long term consequences. We must try to stay positive for others and at the same time be empathetic to their circumstances.

Just using these words as a mantra to yourself or out loud is empowering and refocuses your thoughts.

Make A Simple Plan

One of the single best things you can do to maintain positivity during tough times is to make a plan on how to deal with it. When you focus on the solution rather than the problem, you will naturally feel more positive. You will feel like you are rising to the challenge. See my recommendations here.

Focus On The Things You are Grateful For

Even during great personal turmoil, you still have things you are grateful for. When things get tough, it is vital to remember that there is good in the world, and more importantly, in your life. When you are struggling, take some time to list the things in your life you are grateful for.

At the very least wake up and mentally list your gratitudes and do the same before you fall asleep at night.

Take A Break

Sometimes our circumstances are so dire that we are forced to think about our problems constantly. It is OK to take a break. You can take a break from the news, social media, or other people. It might not be easy but taking a break from external stimuli can help keep you positive.

Meditation can be a great tool for staying positive in tough times. Nick Ortner of “The Tapping Solution” has a free app that has some wonderful anxiety meditations and one in particular for Coronavirus anxiety. Some of the other topics are:

 “Feeling Safe and Secure”
“From Fear and Worry to Peace”
“Sleep Support: Quiet My Racing Mind”
“Stop a Panic Attack”
“Tap and Breathe”
“I’m Stressed About the World”
“I’m Stressed About My Health”
“Instant Boost of Healing”

Find them here.

Journal Your Feelings

Journaling is a powerful tool in so many ways. By simply giving you a place to express your fears and concerns, a journal helps you maintain positivity outside of its pages. Do you know how good it feels to vent to a friend? Well, consider your journal as your best friend.

I’m a big journal fan and you can find digital ones as well as physical journals. You might want to look at these gratitude journals. You can find great ones too for your kids.

Embrace Distractions

Distractions are usually the worst. We are often trying to learn how to avoid or deal with them. They aren’t that bad when you are struggling to stay positive in tough times, though. No matter how silly they seem, you should embrace distractions that bring you joy in tumultuous times.

And joy is the key word. Avoid unnecessary news and too many social media sites that create stress. Love on your family and pets and laugh. Such a mood booster.

If you have kids home due to the school closures carve out time for them to help reduce your stress and make them feel safe and secure. Do indoor activities together. If you are working from home now you have some flexibility.

Hope some of this is helpful to you. Please reach out anytime. I believe we are all stronger together in times of major crisis.

Staying positive in tough times is possible. We just have to love on each other and believe in our resilience.