Staying Grateful, Keeping It Real: A 3 Step Guide to Finding Balance
Category: Misc.
Gratitude gets us through the day, but it’s okay to stay real when the going gets tough. It’s all about finding balance.
Topic Of Discussion
Life is a rollercoaster. We all have those moments when everything is going great, and then, boom, all of a sudden something comes crashing down. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to appreciate the good stuff, or to let the tough times completely derail us.
In today’s world, when, too often, the tough stuff is hurtling towards us as fast as the good, it can be especially challenging to cultivate gratitude. On one hand, gratitude might just be the thing that gets us through the day, but on the other, it’s okay to stay real when the going gets tough.
Need help finding that balance? Read on for insights to keep you on track!
1. Take stock of the good
Even on the cloudiest days, there’s always a silver lining if you look hard enough. Maybe it’s that perfect cup of coffee, a funny meme your friend sent, or just the fact that you got out of bed this morning. Don’t let small wins and little joys get overlooked in the hustle and bustle. Taking a moment to see and acknowledge them can powerfully shift your perspective.
It’s not about pretending everything’s perfect; it’s about recognizing the good that’s already there. Try keeping a gratitude journal, or simply take a few minutes each day to mentally list three things you’re thankful for. You might be surprised how quickly this can train your brain to spot the positives, not just the negatives.
2. Acknowledge the bad
Let’s be real, though: ignoring the tough stuff isn’t healthy. Pretending everything is sunshine and rainbows when you’re feeling a bit rough around the edges is just setting yourself up for a bigger fall. It’s okay to feel sad, frustrated, or angry. These emotions are part of the human experience, and pushing them down only makes them rebound back stronger.
So, when things are tough, acknowledge it. Name the feeling. Talk about it with a trusted friend, or write it down. Just like we celebrate the good, it’s important to allow ourselves to process the not-so-good. This isn’t wallowing; it’s validating your own experience.
3. Keep it real
This is where balance comes in. It’s about holding space within yourself for both the good and the bad at the same time. You can be incredibly grateful for the support system you have, and still feel super stressed about a work deadline. Remember: two things can be true. In this way, cultivating gratitude is about resilience, not denial.
Wrapping it up
Finding balance and cultivating gratitude are ongoing practices. Some days you’ll nail them, and other days you might feel a little off-kilter. The goal isn’t perfection, but progress. If you need some extra support, our counselors at Tri-Star Counseling are experts in guiding your journey.
