At one time or another, everyone struggles to find hope in difficult times. It’s easy to be overwhelmed by your responsibilities and circumstances, not to mention everything else going on in the world.
But you can always find a glimmer of light in dark situations. If you are feeling lost, use these tips to find direction and hope in hardship.
6 ways to find hope in difficult times
1. Acknowledge the hardships you’re facing
For many, feelings of hopelessness are often followed by self-judgment. You may tell yourself that others have it worse or that you are only in this situation because of your own choices. Some people feel that struggling is a weakness and judge themselves for not being stronger.
All of these reactions are valid, but they’re not true. This is a hard situation, and it’s more than okay to struggle. Give yourself compassion as you navigate this period. Yes, it is difficult. But you are strong and capable enough to overcome it.
2. Determine why you feel lost and hopeless
The best way to overcome difficulties is to understand the specific challenges you face.
Are you anxious and overwhelmed by all of your options? Make a list and research the particulars of each possibility. Reach out to people or organizations that can help you understand or achieve your options.
Do you feel like you have no options? It’s more likely that you either don’t like your choices or they feel impossible. Meet with a trusted loved one to explore possible solutions and to understand how to make them a reality. Even if you can’t find an option you like, you can find ways to take control of your choices and outcomes.
3. Volunteer to help people in need
Research shows that volunteering is good for your mental and physical health. When you expand your worldview beyond your life, your problems seem much smaller. Helping others also releases dopamine. You will feel happier, more relaxed, and less depressed just by caring for those in need.
Additionally, volunteering allows you to connect with new people. You may meet someone who can help with your challenges. And even if you don’t, more friends means more support. With a stronger community, you can overcome difficult times.
4. Don’t play the comparison game
On social media, everyone appears to have it together. Friends and family members might also seem to be doing far better than you. In reality, however, everyone is taking life one day at a time. Every person has struggles, challenges, and failures, even if you don’t know about them.
Comparing your life to others’ will only make you feel worse about yourself. It won’t solve your problems or help you find hope. Instead, focus on yourself. Set small goals that will help you overcome your challenges. Celebrate your successes. You can reach the future you’re dreaming of, as long as you keep moving forward.
5. Practice gratitude
One of the best ways to stop a spiral of hopelessness is to practice gratitude. Whenever you feel overwhelmed by your situation, stop and list three things you are grateful for. You can also keep a list in a gratitude journal so you can go back and look at what you’ve written before.
Now, this isn’t meant to be a way to scold yourself. It’s simply an exercise that helps you shift your perspective. Even when life is dark and difficult, there is always something to be thankful for. The more you practice gratitude, the easier finding the silver lining becomes. Over time, finding hope will become easier, and you will be able to face hardships with greater positivity.
6. Spend time with loved ones
Your friends and family are an important support system. Human beings aren’t meant to go through life and tackle problems alone. We are designed to need connections with others.
When you are feeling helpless, reach out to one of your loved ones. Share your struggles and how they make you feel. Most importantly, never feel like you are burdening your loved ones with your problems. You want to hear about their challenges, and they want the same. Give yourself permission to be vulnerable and to ask for help, a hug, or a listening ear whenever you need them.
Discover your unplanned pregnancy options at Thrive Orlando
An unexpected pregnancy often feels like a hopeless situation. But we have good news. You have options, and you don’t have to face this difficult time alone.
With a free appointment at our clinic, you will receive a free pregnancy test and a chance to learn about all your options. Here, you’ll find answers and hope.