When we walk and live through a crisis or tragedy, it can take a lifetime to recover from. One of the last things we want to think about is staying positive. In times of tragedy, the word positive can sound like a foreign concept. It may be unbearable to consider being positive when there is heartache and emotion pain surrounding us. However, it is one of the best ways to rise above whatever pain and hurt you are facing.
In tragedy regular positivity tips and tricks won’t always work as things are different and here are four ways to use positive thinking to improve outlook in the tragic situation you are facing:
Be Open To Gratitude
It may seem like the last thing you want to do when you’re going I through a particularly hard time. When we turn to an “attitude of gratitude” it brings our minds back to the present state in a positive way. IF you can focus on what you have to be grateful in your life right now, you can steer your mind in a positive direction. Even the most basic things like being alive are worthy of considering. Even during the absolute worst of times, we can choose to turn our mind attention to the good things surrounding us. Writing a list of gratitudes or sharing them with a loved one has a way of shifting our perspective.
Keep Yourself Busy
When tragedy strikes the last place you want to find yourself is sitting along with nothing to do but dwell on the own thoughts. If you don’t keep busy, you can find yourself hopelessly replaying the moments and emotions in your mind, plunging yourself further and further into the black hole of negativity. Now is the time to pick up a hobby, get moving, or clean out the closets, pantry. When we stay focused we are less likely to dwell on the negative thoughts.
Surround Yourself With Love
Loving yourself and surrounding yourself with people that love you is a great place for anyone. Love is one of the greatest solutions to almost any problem. First and foremost be kind and loving to yourself. Give yourself a break when things are really hard and refrain from judging yourself. While we work on our self-compassion seek out those who love you, care about you and support you. When we are struggling we need each other more then ever. Take time to schedule a video call, pick up the phone and call your friend or family member.
Stay in the Present
Though it might seem like the present is where you are suffering and you might wonder, “Why would I want to stay here?”, the present is actually the best place to direct your thoughts when you are faced with tragedy. Use your five senses to pay attention to the world around you in this moment. Go outside and allow yourself to embrace the sounds, sights, smells, tastes, touch of spring. Looking back or making predictions about what lies ahead creates stress and worry about things that are out of our control. Stay in the moment, stay present, and slowly the positivity will surround you. Staying present in tragedy is difficult. It can be one of the hardest things you will probably face and it is tempting to allow our minds to drift into the negative. Take hold of this moment and allow yourself to stay positive to shape your mind, emotions and lifestyle towards hope.
