In recent years, especially in the past few months, it feels like the weight of the world has grown heavier. Everywhere you look, whether scrolling through social media, listening to the news, or even chatting with friends, there seems to be a pervasive sense of despair. On platforms like Twitter, the sadness is often laid bare—people openly sharing their struggles, and in the darkest of moments, some even contemplating or choosing to take their own lives. It’s heartbreaking, and the mental health crisis we are witnessing demands more attention, compassion, and support than ever before.
In these tumultuous times, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, to feel like giving up is the only option. But amidst the struggles, there are ways to keep going. It’s not always about finding an instant fix but rather about building small, sustainable steps that help us navigate through the storm. In this blog, I want to share some personal affirmations and strategies that can help push through even when everything feels impossible.
1. “I Am Allowed to Feel This, But I Won’t Stay Here”
When we face overwhelming emotions like sadness, frustration, or anxiety, we often judge ourselves for feeling this way. We think we shouldn’t be struggling, that everyone else is handling things better than we are. But emotions, especially in trying times, are valid. We are allowed to feel pain, anger, and hopelessness. The key is not letting these emotions take over completely.
Strategy: Practice Self-Compassion
Recognize that it’s okay to struggle. Talk to yourself the way you would talk to a friend who is going through a hard time. Be kind. Give yourself permission to take a break when needed, but remind yourself that you won’t let these feelings define you. Journaling your feelings or simply acknowledging them can release some of the pressure. Instead of saying, “I can’t handle this,” try shifting to, “This is hard, but I’m doing my best.” Small shifts in language can help change your perspective.
2. “This Too Shall Pass”
It’s an old saying, but one that holds a lot of power. When you’re in the midst of a dark moment, it feels like the pain will last forever. It’s hard to see beyond the immediacy of your struggles. But the truth is, life moves in cycles. Just as joy and success are not permanent, neither is despair.
Strategy: Take it One Day at a Time
When the future feels too daunting, focus on today. Break your day into manageable chunks and set small, realistic goals for yourself. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, something as simple as getting out of bed, drinking water, or taking a walk can count as a win. Celebrate these small victories because they add up over time. You don’t have to have everything figured out today—just take one step forward and keep going.
3. “I Have Overcome Before; I Will Overcome Again.”
One of the most powerful motivators is remembering your own resilience. Think back to a time when you faced a difficult challenge and came out stronger. Life has thrown curveballs at you before, and you’ve managed to push through. Remind yourself of your past victories, big or small.
Strategy: Create a Resilience Jar
Start by writing down moments in your life when you’ve overcome something difficult, no matter how small. Each time you face a tough day, write it down and add it to your resilience jar. On the days when you feel like giving up, open the jar and read your notes. This simple act of reflection can remind you of your strength and show you that you’ve been able to weather storms before.
4. “I Am Not Alone in This”
One of the cruelest tricks our minds play on us during tough times is making us believe that we’re completely alone. Isolation can be a breeding ground for despair, but it’s not the truth. There are people who care, who want to help, and who understand what you’re going through.
Strategy: Reach Out and Build a Support System
It’s okay to ask for help. Talk to a trusted friend or family member, or consider seeking professional support from a therapist or counselor. Online communities and support groups can also be an invaluable resource. Even if you don’t feel comfortable talking about your struggles in detail, just sharing your feelings can create a sense of connection. You are not alone in this journey, and sometimes a small conversation can provide immense relief.
5. “It’s Okay to Rest, But I Won’t Quit.”
Burnout is real, and it’s okay to acknowledge when you need to rest. We live in a society that often glorifies pushing through exhaustion and difficulty without stopping, but this is neither healthy nor sustainable. Rest is essential, but quitting entirely isn’t the answer.
Strategy: Balance Productivity with Rest
Create routines that allow for productivity while giving yourself time to recharge. Sometimes, rest can look like taking a day off to do absolutely nothing. Other times, it might involve switching to a different task to give your mind a break. Find a balance between working towards your goals and taking care of your mental and physical health.
6. “I Will Take Back Control Where I Can”
When everything feels chaotic, we often feel powerless. But even in the most difficult circumstances, there are things we can control. Focus on the aspects of your life where you can make small, positive changes. Whether it’s your daily routine, your environment, or how you spend your time, reclaiming even the smallest part of your life can help you feel more grounded.
Strategy: Focus on What You Can Change
In moments of helplessness, make a list of the things you can influence. Whether it’s as simple as reorganizing your space, going for a walk, or creating a to-do list, these small actions can help you regain a sense of agency. Taking control of these small aspects of life can provide clarity and give you a sense of accomplishment.
A Final Thought: Finding Light in Dark Times
Staying motivated when you feel like giving up is not about ignoring your pain. It’s about recognizing that your pain is valid while also believing that better days are ahead. In this world where despair often feels like the norm, it’s essential to cultivate hope, even when it seems distant. Small steps, personal affirmations, and a supportive community can make all the difference.
If you’re reading this and you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone. There’s help, hope, and healing, even when it feels far away. Keep going—you are stronger than you think, and your story is still unfolding. Let’s be kind to ourselves and each other as we navigate these difficult times. Let’s offer support, and when needed, seek it out.
Remember, the darkest hour is just before dawn.
“In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” –
Albert Einstein
Stay safe, stay resilient, and never be afraid to reach out when you need it most.
#MentalHealth #Motivation #Affirmations #Resilience #PsychologicalWellbeing #SupportEachOther #HealingJourney
