Sometimes life throws a curveball!
I asked myself the other day, “Just what is it that holds people back from making positive lifestyle change?”
My personal belief is that it’s negative perceptions.
We all get those days, when things get on top of us — we’re tired, we’re overworked, we’re stressed, there’s a mountain of housework, and the kids are running amuck.
As if that wasn’t bad enough, you step on the scales and realize you’ve gained a few pounds — just great. Then, you momentarily glance out the window, only to see your super skinny, lycra-clad neighbor glide past for her post-lunch jog… humph!
But, alas, these torturous thoughts are not worth your consideration my friend.
Here’s what to do when life throws you a curveball…
Realize it doesn’t mean you’re out of the game completely. You will get another chance — if you choose to take it, that is.
Instead, get back into the game, and swing like you’ve never swung before.
In case you’re not easily convinced, here are 3 home truths:
1. Other people DON’T have perfect lives
Despite how you might view other people, it’s fact, no-one has a perfect life.
You may look at someone and think, “Phew, they sure do have it all. Good job, lots of money, perfect physic, perfect kids, just bloomin’ PERFECT!”
In reality, there’s usually a lot more going on than what you see on the surface. So, there’s no point bewailing the sad state of your own life. Difficulties come to most people, at one point or another.
Remember, the important factor is how you choose to deal with the curveball. This is what will make the difference.
2. Life isn’t always a smooth ride
Sure, you’ll have fantastic “up” times in life, when things seem to be going your way. But, often things don’t go to plan.
If your idea of dealing with these times, is to throw your hands up in disgust, and lament your bad luck once again, perhaps it’s time to reevaluate your methods.
Instead of focusing on the negative stuff, fill your thoughts with what’s positive in your life. This can help you gain a sense of direction once more.
3. Those who take risks get rewarded
Following on from what I said above, it seems to me that people who are negative about their circumstances, are often just a little scared to take a risk.
So, rather than getting up and kicking your fat to the curb — like said buff neighbor — you sit home and watch enviously, slouched in your PJ’s. That’s just not good enough!
Much better to get out there, and start whipping your curves into shape. Oh, and don’t be afraid to take a risk because you “usually fail.” With an attitude like that, is it any wonder?
Get out of your comfort zone and take a chance (or two!). Then, believe you can do it.
Negativity… let it go
The Sedona Method is something I’ve recently come across. And I think, it could be very effective.
It consists of a series of questions which help guide you towards letting go. To simplify (the course is much more detailed that this), whenever you feel negativity about a situation surfacing, ask yourself:
- Could I let this feeling go?
- Would I let this feeling go?
- If so, when?
My point is, instead of focusing on the why-did-this-have-to-happen-to-me type questions, move forward to solve the problem by asking the right questions, and in the process you’ll learn something positive from the negative, if you get my drift.
In future, when something negative rears it’s ugly head, rather than thinking endlessly about it, focus your attention on what is in your control.
In case you were wondering, life did indeed throw me a curveball. It happened last Friday. It wasn’t a life-shattering big deal. But, it hurt for a little while. And yes, the above did help me. I hope it does the same for you, too.
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"Great motivational material to absorb!! Thanks!" — Cindy Etier
She's been featured in various publications, approached by TV production teams, and in the past 5 years has established herself as one of the foremost dietitians online.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Totally agree with you! Fear holds us back and that’s what triggers negativity.
Whenever am faced with tribulations and challenges, I always say “SOME HAVE IT WORSE!”….
Wouldn’t it be great to have the mantra, “I’m glad am better off. I got this and that. And i am healthy, may not be wealthy but very lucky and blessed.”
Hi Kristina,
Thank you for sharing.
Your comment made me smile!! That’s a great mantra indeed
great article mel. i totally agree with you. sometimes life just doesn’t go as planned. There are moments when I need to recede into my comfort – that usually includes a lot of episodes of Gossip Girls (strung out together), a couple pizza slices….and I let myself feel sorry for a couple hours and then throw the pity out the window and head into the streets of new york. there’s nothing like feeling the bitter cold to remind you how alive you are and how small your problems are in comparison to the bigger issues. yes, they hurt regardless. but its how you deal with them that counts.
I like your coping strategy, Carolina! I agree with you, there’s nothing like getting outside, and even seeing other people on the streets to realise you don’t just have it so bad after all.
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