Challenging Times
“Life’s challenges are not supposed to paralyze you; they’re supposed to help you discover who you are.”
Bernice Johnson Reagon
Hello, Dear Ones,
This quote made me feel all the things today. There’s so much going on in the world, and it’s overwhelming to navigate at times. Life often presents challenges, but this moment feels particularly hard.
Thanks to my fantastic coach (shoutout to the fabulous Meg!), I’ve been thinking a lot about the mindset and intention I approach challenging times with. Here is what I have learned: if I approach a challenging task intentionally with my values, it doesn’t feel quite so difficult.
However, if I approach the challenge from a place of fear, anger, or despair, it is much more challenging to be solution-focused or action-oriented. I often get caught in a place of complaining or a cycle of negative thoughts and behaviors when I forget to act intentionally with my strengths and values in mind.
I know that it takes time and practice to cultivate the skill of showing up mindfully in life. And if I am honest, patience hasn’t historically been a gift of mine. I am learning, though, and so can you, dear reader.
If life is feeling hard for you right now, first know that you’re not alone. Sometimes acknowledging our interconnectedness and shared humanity can be a powerful healing balm.
Second, think about your strengths and what you would describe as your core values. What is one thing that you could be doing to help you show up more truly in alignment with your values in this challenging time?
Personally, I know I am at my best when operating from a place of empathy and compassion. For me right now, that means finding a way to support the people in Eastern Europe that are suffering. If you are interested in doing the same, I have included links to some wonderful organizations doing important work below for you to scope out and donate to if you are able.
I hope that in life’s hard times, dear reader, you can see your beautiful spirit and the unique gifts you bring to this world. What helps you get through challenging times? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below or by replying to this e-mail. Thank you for being here with me and allowing me to be a part of your journey to becoming your best self. I’m here for you, and I see you.
With love and kindness,
Jessica
P.S. The fun thing I’ve been doing for the past several weeks to care for myself is knitting! Something is calming and meditative about playing with yarn and working through a pattern. Currently, I am knitting a mystery knit-along shawl that is Princess Bride themed. I just learned to knit this past November and have genuinely enjoyed learning a new skill and sharing it with those I love. It is a constant practice in grit and patience.
P.S.S. Here are those organizations to scope out:
https://www.globalgiving.org/projects/ukraine-crisis-relief-fund/
