Let’s face it, we have all fallen victim
to feeling sorry for ourselves.
There is an interesting quote by John
Gardiner “Self-pity is easily the most destructive of the non-pharmaceutical
narcotics; it is addictive, gives momentary pleasure and separates the victim
from reality.”
Amy Morin in her book 13
Things Mentally Strong People Don’t do offers a checklist to help
us determine if we are susceptible to self-pity:
·
You tend to think your problems are worse
than anyone else’s.
·
If it weren’t for bad luck, you’re pretty
sure you’d have none at all.
·
Problems seem to add up for you at a much
faster rate than anyone else.
·
You’re more likely to tell people what went
wrong during the day rather than what went well.
·
You often complain about things not being
fair.
·
You struggle to find anything to be grateful
for sometimes.
·
You sometimes wonder if the world is out to
get you.
Remember, we all feel down at times, and
we all go through tough times and experience heartbreaking circumstances. I
think the danger is that some people seem to get stuck with viewing everything
and everyone as being against them and seem overwhelmed by the prospects.
There is no obstacle-free life; everyone
has problems, and all experience disappointments in life. All people have
difficulties. Regardless of whether you are a person of faith or not, we have
to pay attention to how we feel.
For some, you need to seek out someone
to talk with, a pastor, therapist, medical professional, or mental health
professional, or a trusted friend. Please do not ignore your situation and get
the help you need, it is important, and there should be no stigma attached, and
God is for you!
What are some ways that we can find to
get through down times and times of self-pity?
·
Focus on what you have, not on what you have
lost. When you feel self-pity approaching, think of your blessings.
·
Help someone. Volunteer. Many organizations
could use your help.
·
Do something kind for someone. I have been
amazed when I was discouraged, that by helping someone else, my feelings began
to change.
·
Physical activity. The year 2019 was quite
difficult at our house. I discovered for myself the value of regular physical
exercise. In addition to the physical health improvement, I experienced
emotional release and encouragement. It really helped me to weather the storms
that I was navigating.
Often I find I need to reframe the
circumstance I find myself in by simply asking, ‘Is there another way I could
see this situation?’ I have also discovered it helps me to think of what advice
I would give to a friend if they were facing this same problem?
One thing that has also helped me in
recent days when facing a seemingly insurmountable challenge, I pause and
reflect on past tough circumstances and remind myself that I somehow made it
through the ordeal. If I made it through that problem, I have confidence that I
will make it through the mess I am facing now!
As a reminder, my intent is not to make
you feel guilty for however you feel and what you are going through. I want you
to know you are not hopeless. God cares for you, and He will bring you through.
I also wanted to share a few things that have helped me when surrounded by what
felt impossible.
God is able to bring you through and He
will!
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