3 Ways to Stay Hopeful During Tough Times

Life isn’t always the way we want it to be.

All we have to do is to glance at the headlines to see that we live in very uncertain times. The job we thought was safe might not be there tomorrow. There seems to be a disruption or natural disaster somewhere. And, there are people who choose to be more callous than kind.

It’s easy to get caught up in a negative spiral of doubt and anxiety.

How do you stay hopeful and positive, when you see negative messages and fear all around you?

Here are 3 ways to stay hopeful during tough times:

Be here now

By focusing on the present, you will find it easier to take a step back and act as an observer. By practicing mindfulness, you can enjoy the simple things in life, no matter how bad things may seem. Worries and fears of the unknown can dissipate if you focus on the present.  Look for things in your life for which you're grateful.

Look for ways to show compassion

Spreading hope needs to start somewhere. Begin with the one person you can control, which is yourself. By looking for opportunities to pay it forward through random acts of kindness, you become the impetus for others to do the same. Your compassionate heart and ability to walk in another’s shoes will be the guide to those around you. And, even if this is a challenge, you’ll have at least changed one heart - your own.

One of my new favorite animated movies to watch during the holiday season is called Klaus (it came out in 2019). It’s a beautiful story about how one person can ignite change through small acts of love and kindness.

There is a quote from the movie by Klaus that I absolutely love which is..."A true selfless act always sparks another".

Do something

A person without hope may become stagnant. If you find that’s the case with yourself, then it’s time to compel yourself into action, even if you don’t feel like it. Chance your perspective. Get out of the house. Take a walk. Call a friend. Find places such as nature to create calm and contentment even for a few minutes. The goal is to find a positive action and embrace it, whatever that might be. Do something that makes you feel good inside, and there you will find hope blossoming.

It's so easy to get caught up in the negativity of the world around you. Only by actively seeking hope will you find it. By practicing these three steps regularly, you’ll find yourself able to look forward to each day, no matter what’s going on around you.

If you've been longing to make some changes in your life and you desire to take better care of your health, enhance your relationships, expand your financial resources, and/or experience a deeper sense of purpose and peace of mind, then, let's connect.