REBOUND

Living in the present means embracing what is happening now, but also not discounting the tangible and intangible things we had or our past achievements. Even if we falter, we need to learn to accept that things happen and commit to a plan to move forward.

We don’t need to write things off right away but try to see that that difficult times do not erase all that we have accomplished. Such times gives us more strength to come back even stronger, even if we need to ask for help.

During these uncertain times we all need to look at the world for what it is right now and what it may become in the future, instead of just focusing on the way it was and what is missing. There are things that can come up in our day to remind us to enjoy what we do have, to stave off judgement, and to let things unfold as they may…if we keep our mind open.

For instance, I had a beautiful miniature Ficus tree that suddenly went dormant. All its leaves turned brown and dropped and it looked quite dead. The flowers that in circled the tree in the pot were thriving but the tree seemed to have expired. I just could not bear looking at its unhappy, bare branches. My spouse cut the tree way down just leaving a barely noticeable stump and after a couple of weeks the encircling flowers grew larger blossoms which engulfed the Ficus.

Today as I was watering that pot and I happened to notice that there were many tiny Ficus leaves on the stump hidden by the flowers. Wow, there is certainly life left in that tree I cheered to my spouse. This may seem like a trivial story, but it is one that has a deeper message. It can serve as a reminder that things may not be as they were or even as we hoped they might be, but there will always to be something to look forward to …if we keep our mind open.

Just look around and see people in the stores smiling under their masks and making eye contact with you. You can tell they are smiling because the smile is reflected in the eyes.

Let us find reasons to make the best of life as it comes to us.

Focus on What You Can Solve

Thriving under pressure means building a stronger sense of self. Here are some helpful tools to help you bounce back and focus on the problems you can actually solve:

*Fixing, planning, completing, growing, building, cleaning, planting, or creating things makes the waiting go by faster.

It can also help us stay away from uncertainty and dwelling. Say no worrying or negative mind spiraling and commit to creating a new and more positive world view.

*Adopt a positive view of the universe – stick with the “will” and skip the “won’t”

This starts with how we think and talk to ourselves. Using calming visual imagery or put the 2 for one rule into play: for every negative thought think of two positive images or things to be thankful for.

Having faith in ourselves comes from our belief system. Our positive beliefs come, in part, from being around positive people that can help support our will to thrive and move on.

*Seek support in your “friendship garden”

Including others in your friendship garden can help a lot, even online support or chat groups. A supportive network can foster resiliency, perspective, and growth.

*Look for Inspiration

Inspiration can be found in so many things such as poems, songs, books, and performances. If you like to read, consider joining a book club or consider listening to podcasts or audio books. If you are interested in reading, an author that may inspire you is Louise Hay (“You Can Heal Your Life”).