Lifting your spirits in times of trouble

So I’m headed into yet another surgery.  I turned 40 this year and apparently it was the year for my body to throw a fit. The good news is that 41 is supposed to be awesome!  

While I’m certainly not qualified to give professional advice and this may not work for everyone, I have found a couple of ways to keep my head up during my year of medical appointments and immobility.  

Smile and give compliments
You’ll be amazed how good it feels to give a neighbor a compliment on their beautiful garden or cute dress.  They will smile to you in response to your compliment and you’ll find yourself smiling back. So look for opportunities to say something nice to someone else.  It will make the day better for both of you!

Put things in perspective
Everyone is carrying a burden of some sort. Some may be apparent, some are not.  While it is perfectly okay to acknowledge whatever misery you’re in, sometimes it helps to put things in perspective.  Instead of looking at others whose lives seemingly are without any problems, try to think of those people who are facing more difficult struggles than you and send them positive thoughts.

Buy yourself a fancy latte
Silly maybe. But sometimes it’s the little things that can make all the difference.
I recommend chocolate therapy too. In moderation of course…. 

Look forward to what’s ahead after your surgery or other difficulty you are facing
Are there any special activities you enjoy doing? Any upcoming events on the calendar? Focus on the positive things in your future and spend time imagining how much fun you’ll have.

What do you do when faced with a hardship or difficult time? How do you lift your spirits? Please share by leaving a comment!

---