3 Tips for Handling the Highs and Lows
The reality is that life is filled with ups and downs.
Sometimes it’s hard to sit with our negative emotions, while the positives can be difficult to embrace or appreciate. However, it’s important to remember that negative feelings only give more context for the positive ones.
With the right guidance and coping strategies in place, you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever life throws your way without the burden of stormy emotions. Here are three tips on handling life’s highs and lows.
1. Center Yourself
No matter what sort of stressors or life changes you’re experiencing (even positive changes can be a source of anxiety), centering yourself is the key to maintaining stability through the ups and downs.
For some people, finding this state of equilibrium comes from adopting habits as simple as prioritizing “me time” on a daily basis. That could include engaging in self-reflection or practicing mindful meditation for 30 minutes per day.
Centering yourself will ultimately ease whatever stress you’re facing and offer some breathing room when life gets too overwhelming.
2. Be Patient
If a friend or family member was struggling with their own emotional turmoil, think about how you would treat them. What would you do to show support? How would you try to make them feel loved and appreciated?
Chances are you would encourage them to have grace with themselves. And it should be no different for yourself, which is why having patience is critical for finding balance through the highs and lows.
Giving yourself the time you need to process negative emotions or unresolved issues can significantly declutter your mind, giving you a clearer, more objective outlook on challenging situations. This will allow you to keep moving forward while avoiding sinking into the depths of grief, self-doubt, or negative patterns.
3. The Way Out Is Through
It’s important to remind yourself that every feeling is temporary, and powering through your emotions rather than allowing them to consume you will make for a more stable mindset overall.
You shouldn’t worry about the past, but you shouldn’t feel anxious about the future, either; neither is productive for your wellbeing and will only contribute to negative thought patterns of self-doubt and lower self-esteem.
Focusing instead on what you’re experiencing in the moment will remind you that feelings are feelings, and you have the power to take rational action and break your negative cycles.
Counseling
Better coping skills aren’t something you can acquire overnight, but getting the right help is sure to help you embrace your emotions and live the life of happiness you deserve.
That’s where Morning Coffee Counseling can help. We offer caring, effective virtual therapy for North Carolinans looking to find balance in their life, along with the confidence and clarity you’re seeking.
Don’t stay stuck in negative cycles. Schedule an appointment with Matt and learn more strategies to handle the highs and lows!