Smiling In the Face of Difficulty
No ones life is completely free of hardships and adversity, and it can often be discouraging when we have to face these difficulties alone. How, then, can we find the strength to keep smiling even when things dont go our way?
The first step is to take a realistic look at the situation. If a problem has arisen, that means we can find a way to solve it. Then, its important to focus our energy on finding solutions, instead of allowing ourselves to dwell on difficult emotions that add nothing to the situation. When we shift our perspective and look at the challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow, we create more positive energy.
The next step is often the hardest, but most important: Let go of the outcomes. It can be difficult to maintain optimism when it appears the odds of success are slim, but its important to try and look on the bright side. We can do this by recognizing even the smallest successes along the path to reaching our goal, and appreciating them for what they are – small, but significant achievements.
The last step is to practice self-care. This includes getting plenty of sleep, eating a healthy and balanced diet, and engaging in low-impact physical activity, like yoga or a leisurely walk. Exercise releases endorphins, energizes us, and helps us to reduce stress.
Its also important to find ways to laugh. The physical act of smiling triggers “feel good” chemicals like dopamine, which can help to lighten our mood. And if we need a bit of help in that department, its perfectly acceptable to rely on friends, family, or a professional counselor to meet the need.
In the end, its important to remember that lifes not perfect, and we wont always be able to overcome all of the obstacles in our path. However, when we focus our energy on finding solutions and anchoring ourselves in self-care, its amazing how empowered we can feel when facing even the greatest of challenges. After all, no matter what the outcome, by learning to stay positive, smiling and radiant in the face of difficulty, we can eventually come out on top.
