How To Build Momentum In Challenging Times
Deep within every human being is the desire to soar above the battles of life. In other words, each person wants to live a victorious life regardless of the challenges they face. Difficult seasons be they long or short can be so intense that you want to run away or avoid the pain as much as you possibly can. In the case of this Covid-19 pandemic, there is no escaping the disruption and impact on our daily existence.
The expectation that life will go back to what it used to be isn’t just unrealistic. It is a recipe for disappointment. Life as we all know it has changed.
This is the new normal.
You might be wondering why momentum matters with so much uncertainty ahead.
Given the changes that you have already experienced, it is crucial to remember that time doesn’t stand still whether you are in lockdown or not. The clock is always ticking as long as you are alive. Whilst there are things outside of your control, why not focus on what you can actually take charge of right now.
By this I mean your attitude and actions. The two go together hand in hand.
There is no doubt that at some point over the last couple of months, you have felt battered in some way be it personally or indirectly through the impact of Covid-19.
In order to build momentum, it is necessary to strengthen your wings that have taken a hit in this season. Ironically, difficult seasons provide the best opportunities to do just that in readiness for you to soar. You’re probably wondering what I’m on about and whether I have any idea how dire your situation has been.
The truth is, I don’t know what it’s like to walk in your shoes. I do however know that, there is still a very small part of your heart that is reserved for soaring in order to fulfil some long-buried dreams.
You might not have any control over what life throws at you but you get to choose how you go through the journey. This is a not-to-be-missed opportunity of a lifetime if only you can embrace hope.
I have a few tips on how you can strengthen your wings right where you are
- Embrace the struggles and the pain
The daily grind of challenges often come with struggles and pain that you want to do your best to avoid or minimise. In terms of physical pain, there might be remedies or strategies that you have to take on board which goes against the grain as far as you are concerned.
Rather than protesting and chaffing at the hands that you have been dealt; do what is needful so that you can re-build your stamina as much as is feasible within your situation.
An example of this might be having to spend weeks or months resting when previously you are used to being constantly active. It is interesting that people who are super-productive often make the worst patients.
With respect to emotional and psychological pain; it is easier to put on a mask, pretending that things are progressing as they should. If you are like most, the outpouring of emotion and distress feels very uncomfortable.
Male or female, young or old, suppressing emotional pain only leads to more problems that will eventually trip you up when you least expect it. Don’t buy into the lie that the length of your recovery must follow a textbook pattern and time frame. Be honest with yourself and those around you.
PLEASE ASK FOR HELP IF YOU NEED IT!
It is a sign of strength not a weakness.
- Maintain a pleasant and grateful attitude
It can be challenging to maintain a good disposition at this time. Right now around you, it might seem that it doesn’t just rain, it pours. As much as possible though, it is important not to harbour resentment, bitterness, unrelenting anger or envy. Otherwise, the negative feelings within you become a poison that spreads toxicity around you.
Even though it might seem that your pain is unrelenting especially in the case of losing loved ones. It is important that even in grief, you hold on to the precious memories of the deceased. In that way, you can be grateful that you had the gift of those treasures that are now yours for keeps.
It is important to express your feelings but not be ruled by them. This is not something that can be achieved speedily or by magic. You have to be intentional about it. You might find it useful to have truth-tellers who love you around to be like your mirror from time to time.
- Encourage or help someone else
No matter what has happened to you or what you’re currently going through; you can help or encourage someone else. You probably wonder whether this tip has any basis in reality as you view yourself needing help and support at present.
Don’t belittle the lessons of your tough seasons be they present or in the past. On reflection, there are things that you might be able to teach someone or ways that you can encourage because of where you have been.
Helping or encouraging others does not have to be complicated. It can be as simple as picking up the phone to call or text someone to share strengthening experiences. In these days of social distancing, that can be a lifeline to the recipient. When you decide to serve others during your own trials; it has the effect of temporarily shifting your gaze from your own troubles. That in turn gives you a breather in the middle of your own journey – strength for tomorrow.
Note of caution: I am not suggesting that you neglect looking after yourself or take on board more than what you know you can handle. You know what your personal limits are. You also need to be wise regarding the kind of person you choose to have around you.
Don’t wait around while life is passing you by.
Be inspired to soar.