Emotional Rollercoaster
Sometimes we find ourselves very distant from the life we imagined having. Sometimes life throws us devastating news and we are forced to accept impossible situations. When life alters suddenly due to death, divorce, loss of job, or illness, we can find ourselves in the middle of an identity crisis. When our expectations of self change, we may find ourselves struggling to find our way back. Read on to find out do just that.
Instructions
1. EVALUATE your current situation. Define the expectations others have of you. When you know what others demand or expect from you, it is much easier to redefine your life. Believe that it is in your power to maintain a structured existence in spite of devastation. When your sense of self seems to have vanished, reflect on old photos and letters. List past accomplishments; large or small. Remember who you were...and remind yourself that you're still that person.
2. ACCEPT your situation. Allow yourself to wallow in self-pity, but don't stay down for more than 24hrs. Decide to be strong and you will find strength. Believe in God, and he'll hold your hand.
3. PLAN to make your situation bearable. Whatever it is, whether illness, death, or divorce, you must plan to make things as positive as possible. Give yourself permission to enjoy a favorite activity or food once a week. Pat yourself on the back for any display of courage. If you are unhappy with your job or residence, take appropriate steps to change this. Most of the time, creating a plan is the hardest step. Once implemented, you will provide yourself with structure.
4. IMPLEMENT your plan(s) for the future. Surround yourself with supportive and positive people. We are social creatures and are directly affected by the moods of others. To self-help there are a few things you can do to beat insecurity, fear, and anxiety:
Send yourself an email every evening, offering support as you would to a "friend" and don't check until morning. You can send yourself a boost with any one or more of these messages:
Everything will be okay.
Just Believe.
Life is Good.
You are Valuable.
You matter to others.
Another way to boost yourself is to write messages in your calendar or planner. Use fun stickers and bright colors. Remind yourself to manage debt, and stay on top of deadlines.
Take one day at a time, and courageously find your way back. You can do it!
Tags: find ourselves, death divorce, your situation, yourself with