HOW TO COPE IN DIFFICULT TIMES

Throughout our lives our mental wellness faces many challenges. Just as we know how to enjoy the good times, we owe it to ourselves to be equipped to deal with difficult moments. It means whatever the future holds, we can face it with a positive mindset.

After all, if we’re going to tackle a setback, disappointment or difficult feeling, we need our minds to be in the best shape possible at all times.

The power of resilience

What does it mean to be mentally strong? The answer involves resilience, which is a term used to describe someone’s ability to deal with difficult or challenging times.

We all go through tough times, face big challenges and make mistakes in the process. But it’s OK because failure helps us to learn, develop and grow. So each time you fail, try to stop, reflect, pick yourself up and go again. If you can do this, you will be truly resilient.

 Change your attitude: Start by changing the way you look at mistakes and setbacks, for example a disappointing grade or not being picked for a team.

Instead of giving up, view the experience as a learning opportunity.

 How you can improve: A resilient person will look for ways to improve.

So revise and retake the test, or ask your sports coach what you need to work on to make the team next time. Then put the effort in.

 Stay positive: Even if things don’t work out straight away, every attempt you subsequently make will build resilience. As an approach to life it can only encourage confidence and help us set up a positive mindset, no matter what obstacles we face.