7 mantras to keep you mentally strong during tough times
Often it’s not until we are faced with adversity that we realise the power of our own mind to cope with it (or not). Losing someone close to you, financial hardship or health concerns are just a few of the problems that we may all face at some time in our lives.
The way you perceive the crisis internally is as important as ever. Having a positive frame of mind can help you to get through whatever curve balls life throws your way.
But how do you become one of those people who are mentally strong enough to face anything?
Try repeating these seven positive affirmations to yourself regularly. These can help strengthen your mind, giving you the ability to cope better than you may have thought you could.
I have everything I need to cope with this
Having the defeatist attitude of ‘this is impossible’ or ‘I can’t handle this’ will set you up to fail. But turning it around to a positive can really help. Think of what you do have, and the people in your life that will be there to support you along the way.
I need to be true to myself
Sometimes you’ll need to make hard decisions, such as moving house (or continents) or even deciding on care arrangements for an elderly parent. In those times there will be people who disagree with your decision, but always promise to yourself that you will stick to your guns in order to live according to your values.
We can learn from failure as we strive for greatness
Most people don’t have a simple life free of obstacles, and sometimes we do make the wrong decisions. But there’s no point dwelling on the past. Instead, see failure as a stepping-stone on your way to realising your true potential.
I will always give my best, and that’s enough
Nobody is perfect, so demanding perfection from yourself can cause you more stress and anxiety that you don’t need. Know that giving your all is good enough, and don’t give yourself a hard time if you don’t win at everything.
A few years down the track this won’t feel as important
It’s easy to get caught in a spiral of worry and self-pity, but the truth is that many of the decisions we make now won’t seem as important in five years time. Keep some perspective and this can help you to make the right call.
It’s OK to feel uncomfortable sometimes
So often we want to will the unpleasant emotions such as grief and sadness away immediately. But the truth is that you do have to go through the steps and deal with the feelings before you can move on. There is not always a quick fix. Know that they are feelings and they can’t hurt you.
I am strong enough to cope with this
Don’t let negative affirmations take over when problems arise. Repeating things like ‘this is too hard’ or ‘I will be alone forever’ can only make things worse. There is an inner strength that we all have that we can tap into when the going gets rough, so by repeating this you can flex that muscle that will help you to cope.
Have you got any tips for other Over60 readers for coping with tough times? We would love to read your comments below.
Related links:
Why we dwell on the negative and how to stop
The secret to quieting a frazzled mind
5 wonderful things that happen when you start to believe in yourself