Light in Tough Times

Navigating the challenging times of life

When times are tough—and wow, are they ever—it’s all too easy to get lost in a haze of existential dread and relentless doom scrolling. Trust me, I’ve been there. But that kind of mindset? It’s a surefire way to wear yourself down. So, what’s a girl to do?

Find Joy

Seriously—find what inspires you! What makes your heart sing? Whether it's petting a fluffy animal, soaking in the beauty of nature, writing poetry, composing music, or diving into a creative project—embrace it! Your soul craves that break.

Seek Help

Tough times can feel isolating, especially in a world grappling with a loneliness epidemic. But remember, you are not alone. Reach out to someone who can be supportive and empathetic. If you need to cry, do it together. Don’t shut yourself away in a dark corner; your mental health matters. The world isn’t conducive to great mental health right now, so find a trustworthy therapist. You are strong but not invincible; you don’t have to shoulder all this alone.

Acknowledge the Helpers

When you spot goodness in the world, amplify it. That heartwarming story that gave you a sense of peace? Share it! Someone out there needs to see that light. While the media often thrives on clicks driven by gloom, you can help counter that narrative with love and humanity. Celebrate the local animal shelter changing the lives of abandoned pets or highlight the organizations connecting people with essential resources. I guarantee they don’t hear those praises nearly enough.

Be Kind

Show yourself and others some grace. This world is harsh. So, be soft. Smile at strangers for no reason, hold the door open, return the shopping cart, and don’t hesitate to say, “I’m sorry,” or “Excuse me.” Extend forgiveness to those who may absent-mindedly inconvenience you. Offer a helping hand when you can; everyone fights battles you might never see. Honor their struggles, and choose love over judgment, distrust, or negativity.

Remember Your Community

Make an effort to spend quality, stress-free time with those you cherish. Send a text to your friends, comment on those adorable photos of your high school classmates’ kids, call your parents, or share a laugh with an old buddy. Enjoy a casual walk or a drink together. Hold your loved ones close with gentle hands, and don’t hesitate to check on that neighbor you haven’t seen in a while just because.

Find Balance

This might be the most challenging yet most essential step. We must find the delicate balance between staying informed and caring for ourselves. Set limits on how long you scroll through your feed. Give yourself permission to walk away from the trolls’ comments. Make time for the things that fill you with joy. Ensure you get enough rest, enjoy nourishing meals, take your medications, and schedule those routine doctor appointments you’ve been putting off. A little decluttering goes a long way in reclaiming a sense of control.

No matter what struggle is consuming your thoughts and energy, carve out space for the things that make life worth living. You belong. You are loved. And, truly, I’m glad you’re here.