Sometimes circumstances and challenges feel burdensome. Here are strategies to become consciously upbeat, including how to be more resilient, reflective, and resourceful.
The concept of being “consciously upbeat” certainly sounds like a positive way to embrace the day. It involves taking stock of what has happened, is happening, or is likely to happen–and trying to make the most of it. It’s a deliberate choice, an intentional way of thinking and acting. And, although at first blush it seems to be a relatively easy notion, it can be difficult to put into practice!
This is true for parents, AND for kids.
The reality is that there’s an ever-changing and wide range of potentially impactful contextual factors that have a bearing on people’s lives. For example, there are ravaging storms, devastating global conflicts, personal trauma, economic concerns, and political turmoil. And although some days may dawn brightly and seem fine—or even quite lovely—others are much harder. Draining, complicated, confusing, frightening, saddening, or frustrating… In fact, sometimes what lies ahead looks insurmountable; or a situation feels overwhelming, heartbreaking, or unfixable; or a path is almost impossible to navigate. It’s okay to be sad, disappointed, or worried; to grieve, vent, or express emotions in various healthy ways. That’s part of being human, and can contribute to healing processes and, eventually, to a more positive outlook.
Don’t give up!
CULTIVATING A CONSTRUCTIVE VISION AND VIBE
Be aware of, and appreciate your capacities, and the possibilities for leading a fulsome life.
People’s experiences and circumstances are uniquely theirs, so there’s no one positive framework or action plan that will work for everyone striving to be consciously upbeat. Silver linings may be elusive, and struggling to be happy when you’re not feeling it can be counter-intuitive and daunting.
