3 Tips to get yourself through tough times

I’m not naming names, but thanks in part to a certain someone, the mood here in the U.S. has been a bit less hopeful than usual, a lot more uncomfortable and verging on a little desperate. I don’t know about you, but it doesn’t feel good to walk through life surrounded by that. I for one, have cried enough sad tears over the last several months to last a lifetime.

The thing is, I do still have hope, plenty of it actually. Sometimes I just need to take a step back and indulge in some self-care to get that hope rising again.

Here are some ways to lift you mood and refocus your mind when you’re going through tough times.

1.- Step away from the news
I firmly believe it is a civic responsibility to stay aware of and engaged in what’s going on in the world, but it doesn’t do anyone any good to become bogged down in a swamp of negativity. If you take a break from watching or reading the news –and that includes social media– it will allow your heart a quiet moment to settle so that you can re-engage with a lifted perspective. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by all of the media we absorb in a day. But when we’re overwhelmed, we often become paralyzed– the tasks at hand seem too big. By allowing yourself a break, you’ll have a minute to figure out how you can tackle whatever issues you’re going through.

Also read: Finding a sense of purpose in midlife

2.- Spend time with friends
Laughter is the best medicine and a good dinner party or night out on the town usually does the trick. Grab a few of your closest friends and do something fun. Or if it’s what you need, just have a vent session.

Not that you want to exclude anyone, but if you’re hanging with all like-minded folks, it’ll be cathartic to simply get everything off your chest without fear of judgement or confrontation.

3.- Just do something
I know that in this life, it’s easy to feel too small to make a difference. But your actions don’t have to be grand to have an impact. You don’t need a lot of money, time or influence to make a difference in someone’s life. Simple gestures like spending an afternoon in a soup kitchen, bringing homemade cookies to an elderly neighbor, or babysitting for a new mom while she naps for a couple of hours, can touch people’s hearts. And when people are being lifted up and loved, it inspires and enables them to do the same for others. Before you know it, your small act of kindness may just have  a domino effect.