How to stay positive, steadfast, calm, and assured in times of unrest, cynicism, gloom and doom!
Patricia Love
The world today looks so vastly different than it did two years ago. Or even looking back ten, or twenty years. But the last two years, in particular, have been challenging not just due the pandemic in and of itself, but in terms of political, social, and economical implications and aftermath of this enormous global happening.
We think of what happened in Minnesota to George Floyd and the protests that ensued, over an issue of civil rights that has been waging on for hundreds of years now; we think of the death toll from the disease; the exhaustion and depression encountered by those in health care and on the frontlines; we think of the small business owners’ detriment, so severe, from the lockdowns that they had to close up shop once and for all; we think of the other hysteria and fear over murder hornets, the fires, and flooding from along the west coast, and now the war in eastern Europe.
It’s certainly been a crazy time and not one full of particularly good vibes and positivity. So how do we bring about happiness and confidence in ourselves when the world around us does not instill these feelings? In times of chaos, strife, fear, or sadness, we must remember to reflect, challenge, and be still in the present moment.
Reflection is a big key to reinforcing and maintaining confidence, not just in what you do but in who you are. Take time to look back on the good, the right, and even impressive. You have and can do good and impressive things, even when there is craziness, unrest, injustice, and sadness in other parts of the world. Or even in your life. We can’t forget the responsibilities and faults we have and encounter BUT we can take time to see, own, and cherish where we excel.
Challenge the norm. That goes for stereotypes, for flawed historical practices, when it comes to systems, but also routine in your life that doesn’t serve you. You may not be able to change the world, but you CAN change YOUR world. We can only do so much, and we cannot control everything, but we can control our outlook, we can work on our perspective, and we can call out what is unjust around us, as well as pushing beyond the boundaries of comfort. A big piece in gaining confidence is breaking free of that comfort zone, shedding the cozy comfort blanket… which can happen when you speak up and stand up for what you believe. Of course, we all want to be on the right side of history… but that being said, if you see something wrong in your world, take that risk and let your voice be heard.
Be present. Each moment is fleeting. If we have learned nothing else from these past 2 years, it’s that things can change so severely and so quickly. It is imperative we take these such lessons with us.
Appreciate the here and now. It may take practice but try not to get hung up too much on the past or the future. The past is gone and done and the future is not yet here. We carry so much worry on our shoulders when sometimes we need to just be. A great way to bring about calm and confidence in your life again is to take in the moment, to acknowledge the wins, both big and little. You can try meditation. It’s not so much “turning off your brain,” as it is being intentional with your thoughts and focus. A calm demeanor and level head will always precede confidence in your life. I like to call mediation, “quietation” – you can find a free Quietation on my app ConfidentU, featuring guest speaker, Allanah Hunt. Find more confidence blogs, HERE.
I hope you can utilize these 3 pillars: Reflect, Challenge, & Be Present to help you to improve your confidence in any negative space, situation, or environment you find yourself in. And if you need more help along the way, download my new, free app, ConfidentU from App Store or Google Play.
I see you and I hear you.
Patricia
