6 Reminders for Bad Days

It doesn’t have to be hard.  It’s okay if it’s easy.
Where did so many of us get the idea that if we are too happy, something
terrible is going to happen? We can’t enjoy ourselves, can’t let our
guard down because we think that being hyper-vigilant will protect us. We
can’t ward off disaster by not being too happy. As the great
philosopher Epictetus reminds us, “When considering the future, remember
that all situations unfold as they do regardless of how we feel about
them.” We can exercise caution and care, we can plan and scheme, but to a
great extent, life unfolds on a grander scale than all of our scheming.
Worry will do nothing to change the outcome.

Problems are really opportunities in disguise.
When it comes to problems, you must use what you learn to inform your
future decisions.  Expect and focus on the best that life has to offer
while understanding that it’s often the setbacks in life that make the
very best things possible.   Eliminate confining thoughts about who you
are, what you can do, and how fast you must learn to do it.

You are not a punching bag.
Don’t allow factors outside of your control to drain your energy and
distract you from all the blessings in your life. Let go and focus more
energy on love and abundance. It’s your choice. Instead of blaming
whatever that irritant is for being what it is and waiting for it to
change, you choose to be the change. Take back control of your attitude
and your peace of mind.

Don’t take your life for granted.
Most human beings have an almost infinite capacity for taking things for
granted. Stop looking for what’s wrong and look for what’s right. You
might think that things could be better. But they could also be worse.
There are many people in the world who would gladly trade places with
you. “He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has
not, but rejoices for those which he has.” (Another simple, profound
quote from Epictetus)

Be your own best friend.
Say positive things to yourself. Don’t beat yourself up. It’s important
to tell yourself you are beautiful and see yourself with loving eyes. No
matter how hectic things get, make time for the things you love.  Don’t
neglect yourself.  Know when it’s time to let go and make room for
what’s next. The hard times are necessary to get to the good, so don’t
flee from yourself when the going gets rough.

Just Breathe.
Action is not always the answer. Be still, pray and reconnect with your inner guide.  Have faith.