In life, bad things will happen. I’m not saying this to be pessimistic. It’s simply a reality that we all must deal with. Negative events can make us feel down or even depressed, but today I’d like to encourage you to take on a different perspective.
The phrase “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade” reminds us that we have the power to take negative experiences and turn them into something positive. You don’t have to pucker up and swallow that lemon. Just add a little sugar and water and you can drink a delicious glass of lemonade instead.
How can we do this? I suggest, as I discussed in my last writing, that part of it is mindset. When negative things happen, take notice of how you react. How are you seeing what is happening? What narrative is your self-voice telling you about what happened? You can alter your mindset to a more positive direction – but only if you can first recognize your natural reactions to something negative.
When you can begin to see negative experiences in a more positive light, you can also see them as learning experiences for the future. Don’t dwell on the negative but think about how you might be able to avoid this negative event in the future and become a stronger, wiser person.
And sure, something bad happened to you but if you look, you will see positives all around you. Glory in them! Find your passions, connect with others, and dive into what you love. Something that most of us are reluctant to do can really shift our focus to the positive – make a list of your strengths or start a gratitude journal.
As I’ve pointed out in other writings, if you approach negative events with predetermined strategies, you can develop a resilience for the future. Give yourself the gift of courage and sense of capability to turn adversity to advantage. Negative experiences are going to happen but they can be building blocks to an even better you!
Pragmatic Pieces 