How to Remain Optimistic in these Uncertain Times
Given the state of the world today, you might find it difficult to maintain your spirit of optimism. With so much uncertainty and turmoil going on around you, you are probably one news report away from loosing your cool. These past few weeks, you have been bombarded with information and statistics that aren’t positive or reassuring. You have been confined to your home and left in precarious situations when it comes to your livelihood and the global economy. Now more than ever is the time to adopt an optimistic attitude to help cope with the new status quo. If not, you are likely to be consumed by the negativity and fall into a state of depression.
Being optimistic in trying times is challenging but not at all impossible. It all begins with knowing what you want to allow vs what you don’t want to allow into your thoughts. It is a good idea to take a break from the media which is constantly reporting bleak and forever changing information. Choose to absorb only positive and cheerful information because what consumes your mind controls your life.
Focus on what you can control and not what you cannot. Manage yourself and don’t stress over anyone or anything else. If there is something you can do to improve a situation then don’t stress over it. And at the same time, if there is nothing you can do to improve a situation then don’t stress over it.
When you are feeling fearful or concerned, do not try to block that emotion. Allow yourself to feel the emotion so that it can pass and you can get over it. If you block it, that fear will always reside in you and resurface. Once you’ve acknowledged that negative emotion, counter it with a positive emotion and thought. Always end on a high note.
Find the good in every situation and express your gratitude. Begin to keep a “gratitude journal” and write down at least one thing you are grateful for each day. Appreciate everyday. Focus on what you have and not what you’ve lost. No matter how bad a situation might seem remember, it could always be worse.
Lastly, reach out to your supportive family and friends. You don’t have to do this on your own. While you shouldn’t dump your fears and concerns on others, a nice friendly conversation and a good laugh can keep you in a good emotional space.