Grow Your Mindset in Times of Uncertainty

When things don't go as planned, it can be incredibly disappointing. Hiding our emotions or sugarcoating the situation often makes it worse. Instead, acknowledging and expressing our true feelings can provide relief and help us decompress. While it's true that "it's okay not to feel okay," navigating challenges often requires us to remain calm, focused, and optimistic. As Pema Ch?dr?n suggests, "We cannot be in the present moment and run our story lines at the same time." Or perhaps, we can find a way to balance both.

One of my favorite tools for overcoming hard times is using storytelling to gain perspective. I envision my ultimate goal, filled with emotions and impressions. While my goal is specific, it doesn't have to be for everyone. Simply envisioning feelings of happiness, fulfillment, and safety can be just as powerful.

Keeping this vision in mind reminds us that there are many paths to our desired destination. The bumps along the way make the journey more adventurous but don't define it. I even imagine myself in 10 years giving an inspirational talk or elevator pitch. How much time would I spend on my current struggles? They would be part of my story, but not the whole story.

This vision helps me on good days but, as someone wisely said, "If I need my negative day, I'll have it." Negative days add seasonality to our growth process, building patience, resilience, and strength.

When my analytical mind seeks more data, I reflect on my younger self. She faced many setbacks but managed to get here. Whether through resourcefulness or destiny, things eventually fell into place. I would tell her not to worry and to "keep believing." Things happen for us, not to us.

If I can offer this advice to my past and future selves, I can certainly tell it to my present self. And I do, every day.