Life comes at you fast in the 21st century, and just keeping up is a job all on its own. Everyday frustrations can make you feel
discouraged and overwhelmed, thanks to the frenetic pace of our world. You may be writing a term paper, applying to college, or searching for a job. You may be embarking on a new relationship, raising a child, or caring for an older loved one. You may be struggling to get through the day with anxiety or depression. Whatever your challenge, stop, breathe, and remind yourself of six things that will put frustration in its place.
1. Current frustration will soon be a memory.
Nothing lasts forever. Tangles in the workings of everyday life unravel. Hard work and perseverance will be rewarded. Soon you will look back on these challenges with a sense of accomplishment, having vaulted them on your way to success.
2. Your best is more than good enough.
Sometimes you give your all, and hit a roadblock. But if you have given 100% or more, you can, and should, feel proud. You always learn when you try, whether or not you win. Your best effort is always good enough!
3. Everything does not have to happen today.
The saying “Rome wasn’t build in a day” applies well to modern times. Often, we expect too much of ourselves, and feel inadequate when we don’t accomplish things as fast as we want. Success will happen, and patience is a virtue.
4. Reframe your thinking.
On Facebook, I read a comment where someone said that they changed their “to do list” into “action steps.” She said it made her feel more positive toward the things she needed to get done. I tried it for myself, and it worked for me too. Sometimes, all we need to do is reframe our thinking about a subject. It is amazing how a simple turn of phrase can make such a huge difference.
5. Search actively for the positives in life.
When difficulties come your way, take them as challenges to your optimism. Make a point of actively searching out the good things in life. An especially good cup of coffee, kind words from a friend, a purring cat, it all counts. It doesn’t take long for this way of thinking to become habit. Once this life philosophy is established, you’ll find that the positives far outweigh any negatives in nearly all situations.
6. You are worth it.
Don’t let that fearful self-doubting inner voice get the best of you. Each of us possesses unique perceptions, skills, and drives that make it impossible for anyone else to do what we do. You are necessary! You are valuable! You are worth it!
Some days are harder than others. Keep the above list in mind, and you will find that today’s frustrations will soon become a distant memory.
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