We have all been through mountain top and valley life experiences. When things are going great and the sun is shining, it’s easy to be productive and flourish in your career or relationships. However, it becomes difficult to keep the momentum up when you have to push past obstacles during a low season in your life. Yet, just because it may feel difficult, doesn’t mean it can’t be done.
Here are 7 tools to help you prevail when life gives you lemons to help you make the most out of difficult times:
1. Surrender
When we hear the word surrender we think of giving up. However, in this case that couldn’t be further from the truth. Acknowledging that you are going through a difficult time and surrendering it will allow you to then mentally and emotionally unpack what it is you’re facing so you can begin to see what lessons and tools could come out of it.
2. Check your circle
Be sure to surround yourself with people who will support you, allow you to be vulnerable, have a listening ear and a voice of encouragement. During difficult moments, it’s therapeutic to have a sounding board during times that you may need to vent.
3. Stay positive
Be kind to yourself in words and in deeds. Remember that this is a moment in life, but not your whole life. One day at a time giving yourself grace and maintaining a positive outlook when possible will help you overcome adversity day by day.
4. Check your mental health
Make sure you are listening to your mind, body and soul. Your mental health is important and when you are going through a difficult time, self care and mental care can not be neglected. If anything they become more vital. Set aside time regularly to check in with yourself or journal to practice mindfulness and emotional regulation.
“…stand firm in knowing that everything happens for a reason…”
5. Focus
Remember to focus on what’s working and look at what might not be working as an opportunity for growth. Reconsider, purge or disconnect to old habits or processes that are no longer relevant or working.
6. Build resilience
Develop problem solving skills that will help you deal with challenges and get through difficult times. Your actions in a difficult season or during difficult times can affect outcomes in your life beyond this moment of difficulty. Some examples of building resilience and problem solving skills might include harnessing the power of self reliance, developing thick skin, or increasing your level of productivity.
7. There is a reason for everything
I know we hear this all the time, but stand firm in knowing that everything happens for a reason and this too shall pass. You never know, a delay could be preparing you for your next career move, relationship, or a new life transition.
Listen, we know that as long as we spend some time on this Earth we are likely to have some difficult times. However, it is our reaction and preparation that will determine what we yield from them. When life gives you lemons, are you going to surrender, strive forward, and make lemonade? Or crumble and crawl? Choose today to let a season of difficulty be just that and go through it with heart and grit to get to the other side of it.
Kayvonna K. Stigall is a published author, freelance writer, and poet from River Rouge, Michigan. Instagram: @riseaboveclouds | Facebook @ kayvonnastigall
