We all get discouraged from time to time; the causes being different for everyone.

This past week I was that person. I was feeling discouraged for variety of reasons, however I don't feel the need to list them because I know that the causes are irrelevant. What really matters is how I dealt with the issues.

 

Everyone experiences discouragement at some point in their lives. Whether you're dealing with discouragement stemming from body image, self-esteem, a relationship, a situation at work...(the list goes on) - don't give in to it. While it is all too easy to sit around and let a bad mood fester and the pity party ensue, it is quite simply a complete waste of time. Instead of giving in to discouragement about the issue that is bothering you, throw yourself into how you can make the situation better or solve the problem altogether (if possible or as far as it depends upon you).

 

Speaking from my recent experience battling discouragement this week it certainly isn't easy to pull yourself out of the pit of despair when it seems like nothing is going right! I spent a solid couple of days giving in to a foul mood accompanied by a lengthy pity party. It wasn't until I felt the need to drag someone else into my pity party that I realized how stupid I was being. After "venting" to my poor mother about my state of discouragement and my reasons for it I felt embarrassed, ashamed, and quite frankly, childish. Never again. I want to be the type of person who isn't depressed by difficulties but rather someone who sees the difficulties as opportunities to grow!

 

Admittedly life can be difficult however it does not excuse us to give in to discouragement. Don't give up on your happiest life for any reason! Don't let anyone, especially yourself, bring you down to a place where your outlook on life becomes bleak. Believe in the person that you want to be and then take steps towards becoming your best self.