Upward Spiral
When was the last time you let something unexpected take you down a path of negativity, frustration, anger, and even fear? Sometimes when one bad thing happens we instantly fall prey to negative thoughts and feelings. It can lead to the start of an emotional avalanche. Once that happens it’s hard to stop the snow from barreling down the hill; causing devastation in its path.
Loss, anxiety, shame, guilt, and suppressed emotions are some areas that can cause a downward spiral. Being stuck in this state can be mentally, physically and emotionally exhausting. The trick is to recognize what triggers you before the churning begins. However, you may not know what causes the onset of the downturn, which makes it challenging to identify.
When you feel or suspect you’re being triggered, remember what works for one person may not work for another. Think back on what happened in the past and determine if you can identify some events that caused negative feelings, actions, or consequences. If you can arm yourself with a few positive personal reminders, thoughts, activities, or practices, they can be used and prevent you from quickly sliding into gloom or despair. By having a toolbox of goto applications, making your way up isn’t as daunting.
Some ideas to arm yourself against negativity:
Journal - put your thoughts, anxiety, anger, frustration or fear on the page
Exercise - stay active and move your body
Challenge your negative thoughts — ask if it's really true
Do something you enjoy — read a good book, dance, paint or anything that brings you happiness
Spend time with a pet — unconditional love
Practice positive self-talk — you are doing the best you can
Support - reach out and talk to someone that encourages you
Pamper yourself — do something good for your mind, body, soul, or spirit
Once you’ve changed your direction from spiraling down to turning upward, it’s important to do the work to keep from falling back into old negative patterns. My piece of advice I’d give myself would be to stay consistent with my self-care routine, and make it a priority. Whenever my practices fall to the wayside, my attitude starts to take a turn downward.
I’m encouraging you to take a look at negative patterns and see where there is work to be done. I’m on the look-out for possible snags in my emotional triggers. I want to be in an upward spiral, wouldn’t you agree?
xoxox…..Sheryl
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