To be completely honest, I think I’ve said the words, “I quit,” far too many times to count over the last year. Plenty of these moments were in desperation. And just as many were me being dramatic over the littlest things. Regardless, I think it’s safe to say that every single person in the world has felt like giving up from time to time. (It’s human, after all).
What’s frustrating, though, is how often we pretend we don’t feel this way. We put on a good face, we post positive photos on social media, and we smile with our friends and say, “I’m good, how are you?” Because we’re afraid to get into the nitty-gritty.
We’re afraid of showing people that we’re just not as perfect as we pretend to be.
But guess what? We’re all struggling with something. We’re all messing up, failing, and falling down. As hard as we might try to be the best people, parents, friends, daughters/sons, etc. we’re inevitably going to have moments where we disappoint ourselves and the people we love.
But don’t hang your head. Here are five things to tell yourself if you feel like giving up:
1. Everything is messy and that’s okay.
Everything is messy. From the government to the crazy weather (lol), there isn’t a single thing on this earth that is perfect. Let that free you. You were never expected to be a flawless person, and honestly, trying to be is really futile.
Trust the process, trust the mess, and trust that you’ll get to where you’re meant to be in time. Even in your lowest moments, understand that life shifts, bends, breaks, and rebuilds. You might be along for a wild ride, but try to enjoy the ups and downs as much as you can.
2. People love me.
Repeat this to yourself when you’re broken—people love me.
It’s true. You’re loved, infinitely. Sometimes we forget how many people we truly have in our corner when we’re overwhelmed with our bad circumstances, but it’s true, we’re not alone in this. And whether you use them for a shoulder to cry on or a simple hug, it’s okay to need other people and to let them help you back on your feet again.
3. I’m more than my failures.
You are made of perspectives, ideas, circumstances, choices, and cells. You aren’t made of, or defined by your failures. Maybe something awful has happened to you but this moment doesn’t have to be something that labels you.
Remember that you are always more than your mistakes.
4. There’s always tomorrow.
When you feel like giving up, remember this simple truth: tomorrow is a new day.
Although your circumstance may not drastically change in a 24-hour timespan, it’s true that things do shift with time. Try to start each day with a new slate and perspective. You won’t always feel the way you do right now.
5. I’m okay.
You are okay. That’s the most important thing to remember. Even if your kid failed his test, your mom got diagnosed with cancer, you lost that job, etc. you are still okay. Life will continue and despite it all, you will learn to find your way within the new, difficult patterns.
Featured Image Credit: TONL
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