In today’s world of confusion and utter chaos, we are searching for ways to constructively overcome our own personal problems and limitations.
They say that a really great movie will make you laugh, cry and feel in love all at once. Psychologists refer to this phenomenon as blended emotional events. It occurs when you feel a plethora of emotions within a short amount of time.
While those emotions make for a cinematic masterpiece, dealing with fleeting emotions on a regular basis can be a bit overwhelming and exhausting if I’m honest. Especially when you don’t have positive strategies in place to manage them.
Here’s an extreme example, some people who face drug and alcohol or any other addiction blame their state on not being able to cope with their problems. Instead of releasing their frustrations in positive ways, they felt engaging in those activities would help solve their issues. Unfortunately, millions of individuals lose their quality of life due to these unwise coping strategies.
Let’s take a few steps back. There are other negative coping strategies that aren’t quite as evasive. For instance, passive-aggressiveness, laziness or chronic problem avoidance are all go-to ways of dealing with problems in a nonconstructive manner. Personally, I’ve tried them all and they simply do not work. Once you get your head out of the sand, that hairy monster is still staring you right in the face.
Maybe your problem stems from a difficult relationship. People who struggle to express themselves may find it difficult to cultivate lasting relationships which can lead to anxiety and depression. Repressing your emotions, (aka burying your head in the sand to avoid conversation) comes with its own set of inner challenges.
Often times, this behavior can impact your daily routine. Instead of allowing your emotions to overwhelm you, develop positive coping strategies that help you ultimately to thrive. This will help you avoid potentially dangerous activities that could put you or others in danger.
If you find yourself dealing with problems and you need constructive ways to manage them, consider these six tips that will help you overcome some of your biggest challenges.
1. Talk to a Trusted Friend
This is my favorite one, y’all!! I affectionately refer to it as shared burden-bearing. In other words, once you share your problem with a tried and true trusted friend, you go from shouldering 100% of the burden to 50%. Or at least, it sure feels like it.
Sometimes, the best therapy is releasing your emotions through communication. A good friend, with your best interests at heart, can be the rock you need during harsh times. Confide in someone you trust to alleviate stress and receive suggestions. Sometimes, others have experienced the same trials and can offer reliable information that can help you.
2. Get a New Hobby
There’s nothing more satisfying than creating something new in the face of challenges. If you’re experiencing problems, it’s smart to spend your time doing something productive. This gives you a sense of purpose without always dwelling on your personal issues. Such hobbies include art, knitting, exercise, gardening, reading or healthy cooking. Sometimes the act of engaging in an activity is therapy in itself.
3. Seek Professional Help
At times, certain problems are so overwhelming, that you might need the guidance of a trained professional. Never be afraid to seek help for your toughest challenges. A trained counselor or therapist will never judge or reveal what you share with them. They will be able to offer constructive advice that you can implement in your daily life.
Counseling is available in many formats. If you can’t find a good counselor in your area, there are many online counseling services that can provide you with options. The more complex our world becomes, the more counseling is going to be as common as getting a yearly physical checkup. Don’t let fear or the outdated opinions of others hold you back. Get the help you need to be the best version of yourself. Period.
4. Meditate
Although it may seem counterproductive to do nothing in the face of distress, oftentimes meditation can give you the clarity and calmness of mind that may need to move forward. Meditation encourages you to allow thoughts and emotions to come without judgment.
Meditation can give you a clear mindset to effectively deal with challenges. After your mind is clear, you’re able to take control of your problem and develop a positive solution. Some also find journaling after meditation to be a great way to develop positive coping strategies and solutions.
Keep in mind that meditation can come in many forms. Walking in the woods while taking in the serenity is a form of meditation as it quiets the mind.
5. Exercise
I’m sure you saw this one coming. Engaging in regular exercise is scientifically proven to release problem-solving endorphins. You are actively releasing energy that would ordinarily be used worrying and converting it into something productive.
If you’re dealing with minor or major issues, consider increasing or changing your exercise routine to provide your mind with some much-needed clarity.
6. Prayer
In times of small challenges or overwhelming adversity, prayer is available to us. When the going gets tough, cast your cares on Him, because He cares for you. Don’t overthink this. Just do it. You will be surprised by the “peace that passeth all understanding” that will surround you.
We all face mild to severe problems at one point or another. Instead of turning to destructive coping strategies, it is wise to engage in something positive. This will help you effectively deal with your problems in a constructive manner. By using this process, you can become better and more resilient. Because whatever doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger. (I know, I know…I just couldn’t resist! :)..it sounds corny but it’s true)
Be well + prosper,
Elaine xo