Problem:
I feel like I have a dark cloud hanging over my head. I go to work and hear a lot of doom and gloom about what is going on in the world. Some days I don’t feel like talking to anyone about anything. I wonder if things will turn around and we will get back to a better time in our country. I keep my thoughts to myself as it becomes a big discussion in the staff room.
When I get home, my husband, who I believe is a pessimist, starts in. He listens to the news all day and for the most part doesn’t see the bright side anyway. Thank God for my children. They don’t complain, because they are young enough to be interested in toys and friends. It was nice to be young, way back when and not to have a care in the world. Here I am today and wondering how to get back to my happy place. It seems like a long time since I have been carefree.
Discussion:
I believe we have to create our own happy place. What do you like to do and when did you last do something for yourself to feel better. Those things did not go away but maybe you’ve neglected yourself and just quit doing them.
It is easy to get bogged down with all the “stuff” in the world. It is also true that if we continue to do things that don’t create a sense of peace and happiness, we will definitely continue to get the same results.
Think back to your favorite place to see. Think back to your favorite books. Think back to your favorite music. Think back to your favorite vacation. Think back to your best decorating ideas. Think about how a flower garden brought peace. Think about reading a book that is actually uplifting.
Stay away from social media and the news for a few weeks. Go for a walk. Look at the sunset or sunrise. Make something for dinner because you like it. Maybe these ideas don’t seem like a lot, but the main thing is you will begin to think of yourself as someone who creates joy for yourself. It is a beautiful thing to be around someone who sees the beauty of our world.
It seems to me that we are in charge of our self-nurturing. It requires a little effort but in the long haul it is worth it.
P.S. Make a list of all the things you love to do and do one a day for 30 days and see if that mood has lifted.
To submit problems, contact Juanita Sanchez, psychotherapist, by email at [email protected] or through High Plains Journal.
