3 Ways to Move Forward Even When You're Struggling

Life challenges us. We all know this.

If you are going through an acute period of heartache, struggle or stress: take heart, my friend! There are small things you can do for yourself in this moment to find a way through.

Here are 3 of my favorite simple, fast ways to shift the energy.

Support Yourself Through Difficulty With These 3 Power Moves

Create a strong, confident posture in your body. Our bodies give indicators to our minds and hearts on how we’re doing. Chin up, eyes up, shoulders back. Feel your feet on the ground. Feel yourself become present and aware of your physical body. This will give you a boost of new energy. Do your best to check yourself when you start to slump, slouch or round the shoulders forward. Open up your chest and stand tall.

Ask for help and welcome the support when it comes in. Feeling isolated can make a difficult situation feel ten times worse. Are you having a crappy day? Are you feeling down in the dumps for the second, third, fourth day in a row? Tell somebody about it. You don’t even have to get super specific on what’s going on, or make a big deal out of it. Just say, “I’m not doing so well, and I could use some support right now.” I do this sometimes on social media, too. I’ll post a quick frame in my Instagram or Facebook story and just say, “I’m struggling. Good vibes appreciated today.” I’m always amazed at how QUICKLY my support group responds and shares little reminders to keep going, or they send a laugh my way. It’s not weakness to ask for help— it’s a strength when we choose to be vulnerable and lean on others who care about us!

Break things down into smaller chunks. When we become overwhelmed, we want to give up. We get tunnel vision and we struggle to see the bigger picture. If this is happening to you, take a step back. Take a moment. Breathe. Then figure out what the best next step forward is. Ideally, make this something small that feels manageable and doable. Talk yourself through it if you need to! “I’m going to do this one thing right now. After that, I’ll pause and take a break.” Repeat this process and get through what you can. There is a way forward, and sometimes it’s through patient and doable baby steps.

What else helps you when you’re having an off day?

Sending you so much strength and love.