The How-To Lounge: Picking Yourself Up From Rock Bottom
This past weekend I asked you all to share a moment in your life when you felt as if you'd hit rock bottom. There were some amazing stories, and it was so inspiring to hear how some of you had made it through all the stronger. But I also feel for those of you in the midst of a low point right now, so I want to take this opportunity to share some of my advice for how to cope with such a difficult time. If this is something you're struggling with right now, check out my tips when you read more.
- Perhaps the most difficult part about hitting rock bottom is admitting it. For many people, acknowledging this low point is basically the same as saying they've let their life spin out of control, which can feel very dispiriting. But if you don't admit it, you'll never be able to fight through it.
- It's OK to be scared. Once you realize you need to put your life back together, the climb to the top can seem terrifying. Learning to keep trying even when you're scared is half the battle.
- Fear can be very defeating, but don't give up. Change doesn't happen overnight, but if you stick with it, eventually you'll get the results you long for.
- They call it rock bottom because you can only go up from there, so start with baby steps. Create small goals for yourself and as you succeed, make them larger. And of course, whenever you achieve a goal, no matter how small it may seem, take a moment to pat yourself on the back.
- Finally, reach out for support from others. Obviously friends and family are a great resource, but if you can't go to them, consider a therapy group or even an online forum. Sometimes just knowing that others understand you makes all the difference in the world.
As impossible as it seems right now, you will make it past this rough patch! For those of you who have, please feel free to provide your best advice in the comments below.
