Six LessonsThat Changed My Life 

by Andrea Chervenak

"Everything is either an opportunity to grow or an obstacle
to keep you from growing. You get to choose."
Dr. Wayne Dyer

If degrees were awarded based on life experience, I would definitely have a doctorate in surviving tough times. I have dealt with many of the same things you may be struggling with right now.  Perhaps you are ill, have money problems, hate your job, or have been hurt by someone you love.  I can tell you with 100% certainty that no matter how difficult life may seem right now, no matter how overwhelmed you may feel, things are going to change.  There is a natural ebb and flow to all life:  the sun sets, only to rise again…the bleakness of winter, is followed by the rebirth of spring…the tide goes out,  then comes in again.  And we will always move past our troubles and sorrows to happier, healthier, more peaceful times.

Recognizing this truth has helped me to find patience and strength during the “winters” of my life.  Through the years I have discovered that with the right attitude it is possible to come through difficult experiences stronger, smarter, and better equipped to handle the next turn of the tide.  Here are six lessons that have helped me to survive life’s challenges in a more positive, peaceful way.

1. There is a natural ebb and flow to all of life, so no matter what you are coping with right now, take comfort in knowing that nothing lasts forever, and “this too shall pass.”

2. Learn to accept whatever circumstances you are dealing with. You know anger, disappointment, and negativity won’t change anything - actually negative emotions will likely draw more negativity into your life.  You may not like what is happening, you may not understand the how’s or why’s of it, but when you view it with an attitude “it is what it is” you are diminishing the power it has over your life. You may not be able to see it in this moment, but who knows what lessons or opportunities for growth and enlightenment are being created as you move through this challenging time.

3. Reverse the thought patterns that are keeping you stuck.  If you focus your attention on what is wrong, and what it is you don’t want, it is easy to create patterns of negative expectation – a mindset that expects the worst and seems to attract circumstances to reinforce this subconscious belief. The shift to a negative mindset can be so subtle you may not even be aware of it.  As you begin to switch your thinking from what it is you want to move away from, to what you want to attract, you are now living in positive expectation, and will be in a better position to attract more positive energy into your life. 

4. If you want to be it, you need to see it!!  Good health, a fulfilling career, a rewarding relationship, financial security.  Clearly define what it is you want, and then create a picture of it in your mind.  See yourself healthy, visualize your dream job or relationship, or imagine the peace that financial security is going to bring to your life.  And every time you find yourself in the midst of a pity party, or you are feeling down, take a deep breath and release all of this negativity as you exhale..  Then pull up that image of you doing or being whatever it is you want for yourself.  Keep playing that movie in your mind – and in time you will notice a shift in those negative-thinking patterns to those of positive expectation!

5. Living in gratitude and having a mindset of appreciation enables you to be aware of the blessings in every situation. And there are always blessings, even in the most difficult of circumstances. “There is always someone who has it worse than you” was my father’s favorite refrain every time I would complain…and this is so true, isn’t it? Sure life can be tough, but you have survived tough times before, and will survive them now.  Keep your focus on the blessings, and watch them grow!

6. Peace is strength.  From a place of peace you can think more clearly, make better choices, and create an environment where the body , mind, and spirit can work as one.  Learn more about  Breathing Techniques, Meditation Tips, and Relaxation Exercises that will help you to connect to that calm, peaceful, serene place that rests within you.
 

For more about my healing journey, read My Story.

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