It’s hard to be happy when things are tough, and it feels like your world is falling apart. But that’s when you need to find ways to be more content because that’s what gives you the energy and determination to persevere until things get better.
I’ve been watching a lot of Abraham Hicks videos on YouTube lately, and the one thing I’ve taken away from them is that if you focus on how tough things are, then you’re going to get more of the tough stuff.
But, if you focus on feeling good, and doing the things that make you feel good, then you get more of the good stuff. And we all want more of the good stuff, right? Heck, we all deserve more of the good stuff, because dang it, times really are tough.
So, how can we find ways to be more content and bring more of that good feeling our way.
Here are 5 little ways to be more content when things are tough…
1. Use your support network
If you’re feeling down, the last thing you should be doing is trying to go it alone. While it can be hard to share what you’re feeling, and it might seem like no one else can understand what you’re going through, the truth is that we all face challenges at different times in our lives.
Don’t try to go it alone if you don’t have to.
Instead, make use of your support network. Call a friend and talk to them about what you’re dealing with. If you can, ask someone to watch your kids for a bit, or do one little thing for you to give you some breathing room.
You might also be able to find a local support group, if you’re not comfortable talking to friends or family members. Believe me, I get that… I’d rather talk to strangers about things sometimes, than tell my family what I’m dealing with.
2. Lean in to your self-care practice
Why is it that when things get tough, the first thing that gets pushed out of the way is our self-care practice? Why do we think that we can’t afford the time, energy, or money to get the rest and relaxation we need.
It’s important when you’re trying to be more content to lean into your self-care practices. It’s the little things that remind you you’re worthy of love – especially self-love – that give us the power and incentive to keep going when that spot under the desk is looking really good!
The truth is, if you don’t love yourself, then it makes it pretty hard for others to show you love and compassion. And without knowing why times are tough for you, I’d be willing to bet that you need all the love and compassion you can get. So start by giving it to yourself.
The easiest way to start is to do something every day to take care of yourself. It doesn’t have to be anything big. It just has to be by you, for you. If you need a few ideas, here are some that I like to use:
- Sit for half an hour with a cup of tea and a good book
- Watch a Hallmark movie
- Take a bubble bath
- Sit on your porch and enjoy being outside
- Color, or do a puzzle.
Figure out what you can do that makes your heart happy, and then do it. Often.
3. Get rid of your stress
I know, easier said than done.
Self-care can help with that.
As a wise person once told me, when you’re stressed everything seems bigger. It also wreaks havoc on your health. (I’ve had the heart attacks to prove it. Yes, more than one.)
The trick to being less stressed and more content is to do the little things. Go for a walk, cry if you need to, do some yoga or Tai Chi… we’re back to what makes you feel good here. Because at the end of the day, feeling good is what it’s all about.
4. Naps are a good thing
Did you know that as a society we are chronically sleep deprived? And sleeping properly when you’re stressed about tough times is really hard.
So, sometimes, even though it doesn’t seem like it, one of the best things you can do for yourself when you’re trying to be more content is to take a nap. Turn your brain off for a minute, and just revel in the fact that you can check out for a few minutes, close your eyes, and just feel what you want to feel. If there’s a breeze coming in the window, or you’re on a hammock in the back yard, even better.
You’ll come back from your nap feeling refreshed and ready to get back to work. You might even come up with a solution for your situation once you look at it with freshly rested eyes.
5. Get Outside and Move Your Body
I don’t know about you, but I’m often at my most content when I’m outside. If I’m outside and going for a walk that’s even better. It’s easy to be more content when you’re out in nature, I find. It also helps you sleep better.
Final Thoughts
If you take anything from this, I hope you see that it doesn’t take a ton of money or a huge investment of time and energy in order to be more content. Taking small, consistent actions and practicing some self-care can help to relieve stress and get you feeling better about your life. Things may still be tough, but if you come at them feeling as content as you possibly can, you’ll give yourself a better chance to rise above it than if you allow yourself to sink deeper in.
In the end it really is all about feeling good. Because when you feel good, more of the good stuff finds you.
What can you do today to feel good? Leave a comment and let me know!
Disclaimer: I’m no expert on mental health, and can only speak from my own experiences, which is what this post does. It goes without saying if you’re feeling seriously depressed and need help, please call your health care provider or a mental health hotline.
