Fearlessly living through the sadness is something I care about because it is everywhere. It’s hard to get through a day without reading or hearing something sad or horrific. People kill others, people die from cancer, people kill themselves. Tragedies come big and small. There are unwelcome diagnoses for a family member, unkind words from a co-worker, letdowns by friends, and all the “little” stresses that are big deals in their own ways. It takes a toll on our sanity and hearts. Little by little, these things add up and have an effect on us, and we may not realize how strongly.
For me, I learn about injustices around the world, and most of the time, there is very little I can do to help. I read news stories about cancer and loved ones left behind. Sometimes I set my expectations too high for myself and others and I end up disappointed and frustrated. Have you ever experienced situations like this?
I don’t think we’re meant to live life wallowing in sadness, fear, or anger. We may be forever changed and/or sparked by a life event or something going on in the world, but if we dwell too much on the loss, we lose our lives while we’re alive. In the midst of the sadness we face in the world, what can we do? Here are some ways we can move forward.
1. Write it out.
Journaling is a good way to put your thoughts on paper/computer and out of your mind. Write about what you feel and why. Similarly, writing about positive things can make you feel better. Write about what you’re thankful for, and things that make you happy. Write about the best parts of the day. Writing gives you the opportunity to focus on and process what you’re feeling.
2. Remember/Honor your loved one.
If you’re sad because of death, a good way to keep living is to remember and honor them. Carry on their dreams and make them yours. Take care of their loved ones. Send them thoughts. Start a tradition to honor them. Donate money to charity to honor them.
3. Take a walk
Being outside, getting fresh air, and creating movement is a good way to refresh. Any kind of physical activity can help you de-stress and take your mind off things. Sweat and adrenaline through cardio will help your state also.
4. Surround yourself with things that make you smile.
A puppy, colorful flowers, vanilla-scented candles, freshly baked cake, caring friends. What makes you smile?
5. Talk about it.
Find a friend to talk about how you feel, what you think about what’s going on in the world, and what you can do to change it. Bounce ideas and advice off each other.
6. Eat a good meal.
Assess how your body and brain are feeling. Do you need a boost or to cut back (mainly sugar and caffeine)? Eat something fresh and nourishing for your body. Indulge in your comfort food. Some studies find a high-carbohydrate meal can help balance the chemicals in your body. Another study has shown fish helps with depressive moods. If you need help, consult a nutritionist.
7. Do good.
Little acts add up to make big differences. Performing small acts of kindness not only brightens up the lives of others but has a way of making you feel differently too. Try volunteering at a food bank, babysitting for a friend, paying for someone’s coffee behind you in line, writing a card, or saying thank you.
8. Learn about it. Act on it.
Sometimes learning more about a subject can take the fear and sadness out of it. Or maybe it can spark action in you to fight for change. Become educated and aware of what’s going on in the world. Start civil and thoughtful discussions about the subject. Challenge others to think about change. Get involved for a cause you’re passionate about to make a difference.
9. Step away from it.
Some issues are too heavy when you encounter them day after day. Causes need active minds and volunteers to help change the world for the better but they don’t need to take over your life in a negative way. Turn off the news for a day or two.
10. Meditate or Pray.
Meditating, finding a quiet moment to yourself to acknowledge your thoughts, is a great way to relax, process, and release. It’s a good time to remind yourself of what is and isn’t in your control. Read this post called When you take on the sadness of the world. If you believe, send your thoughts to your higher being to help you feel peace.
11. Talk to a professional.
If you feel like the sadness won’t go away, find a professional to talk to. They talk to many individuals as part of their job, so they have different perspectives that could enlighten you and give you guidance.
12. Read this blog post called ‘Fifteen Things for When the World is Shitty and Terrifying.’
The one thing we can do when awful things happen in this world is be a better human. There are plenty of things in our daily routines that can help brighten someone else’s day and help us with our sanity. I highly recommend this post!
Have any recommendations? Leave a comment below!
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