Blog 4 - Finding That Silver-lining
We each have our daily struggles and challenges that sometimes seem overwhelming. We wonder why does this always happen to me? Even our family and friends let us down, leaving us feeling frustrated, disappointed, and unhappy.
What if in these moments we stepped back and tried to find the silver-lining?
One Day at a Time
How often do we worry about what might happen in the future? Being in the present and focusing on only today can quickly remove the burden of worrying. Working toward what we can control helps to support our overall confidence and gives us strength to take the next step. Identifying 3 goals for the day can turn a loss into a win and move us to a position of success. Setting up goals for the day should be attainable and straightforward such as I will reach out to 1 new client today, make a healthy dinner at home vs. eating out or stay off social media for the evening. Focusing on small achievable steps today, can help to put aside unhealthy worry about the future and establish a positive mind-set.
Self-reflection
When we look at those around us, we easily identify their faults, mishaps, dishonesty, or other ways they need to improve. Looking at ourselves and identifying our strengths and successes may help to stop wasting time judging others and focus on appreciating ourselves. How many compliments have you given yourself today? Where have you succeeded and are proud of YOU? This doesn’t need to be a Nobel prize you’ve won, but small things that all add up to greatness. Consider complementing yourself on the phone call you made to your neighbor to check in, the great smile you shared with the delivery driver, or the gracious act of letting the person in line go ahead of you. Reflecting on our own successes can make us feel better and stop the negativity and judgement of others.
Building Bridges
Life is full of relationships we have built over a lifetime. Some relationships easily flourish, some march along and others get lost along the way. What impact have you made to improve a relationship that you value? Relationships are built over time, but even small steps can help keep a relationship moving in the right direction. Consider taking action to repair or enhance a strong relationship that you want to maintain. Try reaching out today by sending a hand-written note expressing your gratitude, make a phone call to say hello, or schedule a meet-up for coffee. By committing to making the first step, others will likely follow.
Focusing on One Day at a Time, Self-reflection and Building Bridges may help to push us toward finding that silver-lining that can easily get missed in that adventure called life.
Next steps:
1. Set 3 goals you can accomplish today
2. Identify 3 strengths or successes you have had today
3. Name 3 positive steps you will take today to build up a relationship
#bekindtoyourself, #silverlining