Learning To Stay Positive in Tough Times

Do you tend to see the glass as half full or half empty? Well, your answer will clearly indicate your optimistic or pessimistic outlook on life.

"Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." - Abraham Lincoln

With the recent pandemic situation and the economy meltdown, even though it may be difficult that we stay positive for the wellbeing of our families, companies, relationships, and our own peace of mind.

Ever wondered why few people who went through extreme tragic situations only to come out the other side stronger while few others fell apart and could not cope?  To get the answer, we need to understand the theory of positive disintegration. According to the developer of this theory, Kazimierz Dąbrowski, human beings can only evolve when they face adversity which forced them to reform their self-concept.

So when the tragedy strikes and it drains us of our hope, energy and confidence is when we are at our greatest potential for growth. Most successful people had, at one point, an adversity in their lives that acted as a stimulant.  Indubitably that is not a common phenomenon with everybody else. We all react to the pain and crisis in a different way and it is natural; few of us keep their calm and start thinking of ways to resolve their problems whereas the rest give in to the pressure and break down.

There is no cheat sheet for this unfortunately. However, there are few things that might help us to stay positive:

• Never ignore the feeling of disappointment or sadness; it is very important to address those in order to able to grow from them
• Meditation or relaxation exercises can be helpful, it gives the space and clarity to organize our priorities
• Focus on the positives—Yes, we can train our mind to see the positive in every bad situation. You will be surprised at the calmness you would feel while listing the positive things in crisis
• Reach out—We are not alone in the crisis and few people must have seen worse. Talk to them, listen and you will surely get inspired
• Gratitude—Appreciate the good things in you, others, the nature and the life you have been given. Adversity can remind us that while things may be tough, we have so many blessings such as health, a job, a place to live, people who love us, and much more
• Nature therapy—Being stuck inside four walls working can be exhausting and depressing which is why spending some time on your favorite outdoor activity can do wonders. A simple walk on the terrace, watching the sunrise from your balcony and feeling the wind in your air can clear your mind

Further to reiterate, it is not humanly possible for all of us to be happy, positive and optimistic in times of crisis however if we can make these small changes in our way of living, it will bring the transformation.  Lastly, I will leave you with this famous quote:

“You have to fight through some bad days to earn the best days of your life.”

Anshu Soni
Client Manager, Ascend Athena