What is your state of mind these days? Are you fearful? Or, are you hopeful?
When we are afraid, we think that something bad is happening to us now, or something bad will happen to us in the future.
On the other hand, being hopeful is thinking that something good will happen to us in the future. We HOPE for something GOOD.
Although fear can keep us vigilant, too much of it might lead to anxiety, stress, and depression, which may cause other physical and mental health issues.
Being hopeful keeps us optimistic. It can give us the emotional, mental, and even physical drive and strength to accomplish things.
So, how can we make that shift from fear to hope?
Here are some of my personal techniques.
1. Recognize that most of our fears are irrational.
Why are they irrational? Because oftentimes, it’s all in our minds.
Maybe we’re afraid of losing our jobs during this pandemic. Let’s not waste the time and energy being afraid, especially when we still have a job. Focus on keeping that job. Contribute to the survival and success of the company so it can continue employing people.
2. Turn a deaf ear to negativity.
If you are afraid to try, do, or be hopeful about something because people around you are saying…
Parang hindi mo kaya. (It seems like you won’t be able to do it.)
Hindi bagay sa’yo. (It doesn’t suit you.)
Impossible yata ‘yan para sa’yo. (That is impossible for you.)
Drown out that noise.
Our Olympic athletes, like Hidilyn Diaz, received so many negative and discouraging comments from people. Many people kept saying they wouldn’t be able to do it, but they have broken glass ceilings. Congratulations to our 2021 Olympians!
Don’t listen when people say you can’t. It’s what you tell yourself that matters.
3. Be proud of your independence.
If you have no one else to uplift you, then uplift yourself.
If you are fearful because you have to do things and go through struggles by yourself, realize that your self-sufficiency makes you stronger than most people. This is an advantage that puts you far beyond the capabilities of other people.
Don’t be afraid because you’re on your own. Be hopeful because you can do things on your own.
“The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something. Don’t wait for good things to happen to you. If you go out and make some good things happen, you will fill the world with hope, you will fill yourself with hope.” ―Barack Obama
