When you’re in a funk, it can feel like everything is going wrong. You may have an unsupportive family or environment, or maybe you feel trapped by negative thoughts and habits. Regardless of the cause, when we’re in a funk, it can seem nearly impossible to get out of it. But with some self-assessment and motivation — plus a little help from outside — we can all overcome our blues.
1. Accept what you can’t control.
We all have a natural tendency to try to control our own lives. While we may not be able to stop tragedy from happening, we can choose to let it have less of an impact on us. What can’t be changed doesn’t need to be feared, and focusing on what you have control over can help you feel less hopeless. Accept what happened and move on. Ask yourself why you’re still dwelling on it.
2. Reframe your situation.
It’s easy to look at a difficult situation and decide it’s “all my fault.” When we blame ourselves for things that aren’t under our control, we can feel even more powerless than before. But it’s easy to reframe situations by taking a step back and looking at them from a new perspective. Try to look at the situation objectively and try to find something positive to take away from it. Try to look at the situation objectively and find something positive to take away from it. Is there something you can learn from this situation? Is there anything you can take away from it? Even if you can’t change the past, you can change how you react to it.
3. Think of those less fortunate.
When we’re feeling down, it’s easy to find fault with ourselves or our circumstances. But if we put our focus on those who have a lower socioeconomic status, we may be able to find some inspiration in their struggles. Many people are struggling right now, especially as the economy remains in a downward spiral. Try to think of those who may be facing challenges that are far beyond your own. There may be people in your life who are struggling, or who could use your help. Find something positive to take away from any challenges you face, and try to think about how others are certain to face challenges in the future.
4. Be kind to yourself.
It’s easy to beat ourselves up when we’re feeling down. We may berate ourselves for our lack of skills or expectations, or we may even doubt our ability to ever get better. But self-criticism is actually one of the worst things we can do for ourselves. It can keep us stuck in negative patterns and can even trigger anxiety and depression in some people. Assume the best about yourself — even if you’re not completely sure. If you’re not sure about something, assume you’re probably wrong.
5. Visualize your end goal.
When you’re feeling down and out, sometimes the best way to get yourself out of the “funk” is to think about how you want to get out of it. Put that picture up in your head and really focus on it. You may find that the more you think about your end goal, the more it excites you. You may also find that it serves as a kind of “motivational placebo,” giving you just enough hope to get you out of your funk.
6. Plug into your strength.
It’s important to remember that stumbling blocks are opportunities to strengthen your own skills and strengths. Even in difficult times, finding something positive to focus on is important. Set a goal to focus on one skill or strength. As you practice that skill or strength, you’ll be building your confidence and helping yourself feel better.
Wrapping up
When we’re in a funk, it can feel like nothing we do seems to get us out of it. That’s why it’s helpful to remember that you don’t have to figure everything out in one day. Even if the day feels like it’s crawling by, it’s important to remember that things will change soon enough. Don’t lose hope; you’re in this for the long haul. You might as well make the most of it while you can. These tips can help you find the courage to get better. Remember that your life doesn’t have to be perfect; it can be much better than that.
