As human beings going through our journey in life, we may not always feel jovial or in top spirits. Our feelings can be impacted even more when we seem to be pursuing goals, dreams or ambitions, and find that we are far off from where we would like to be. The truth is, we can all get to a point where things seem stagnant in our lives and wonder what is happening. Whenever I get to a stage like that, I try to remind myself of the scripture in Ecclesiastes 3:11, where it says: “The Lord makes all things beautiful in its time”. However, even with these comforting words, it can still be a little challenging to see that with all the best efforts in the world, things seem to be at a standstill. I personally believe that it is in these times that God is working behind the scenes, and that it is our faith that is being tested. At the end of the day, if we already have it, then why do we need faith? In Hebrews 11:1, it says: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for and carries evidence of things not yet seen”. This means that even though you may not see it physically, you are convinced that you will eventually see it – that is faith! Now even the most faithful of us would need to employ strategies to carry us through when our faith is being tested. There are three quick strategies I use and advise my coachers to engage in when they find that being hopeful is a bit of a struggle, which are as follows:
- An attitude of gratitude is so paramount when you are travelling down the road of pursuing goals. This is not the first time I have said it, nor the first time you have heard it – it is something that will continue to be said because it is key. Being grateful means that you appreciate what you have now. This is better than deferring your happiness until the thing you are waiting for arrives. The type of attitude that waits to receive something great before feeling happy is the type of attitude that never fully appreciates what they have for long. Be happy and grateful now.
- Have a book that records all the positive things done or positive feedback received. A former colleague of mine used to have a note pad that she would carry round with her, and anytime any of her peers or superiors said anything positive to her, she would write it down in her notepad. This notepad became very handy because anytime she felt demotivated or down, she would refer to her notepad and it would either instantly bring a smile to her face or pick her spirits up. Maybe this is something that you could give a try.
- Set yourself a short-term goal like losing 2kg in 30 days, start a new class within 30 days, learn a new dance move or learn the lyrics to a song that you like. Setting a short-term goal or target can also be a way to boost confidence and get one feeling hopeful again.
We can all find ourselves at a bit of a standstill in life sometimes, the trick is to find a way to intentionally make yourself feel positive and hopeful about life.
