I write this at the end of a grumpy day. The irony is not lost on me. There are many things that cannot be solved with mindset. Sometimes, finding a different perspective doesn’t numb the ache of disappointment. And, in the very dark moments, making meaning is impossible.
Yet, over the years, I’ve found that intentionally shifting perspective and reframing situations gives me the buffer to reach beyond the emotions of the moment. My “mindset” is that I believe everything is an opportunity for learning, that we can often find light when we look for it, and that, even when we can’t see the light, it is still there.
As a psychologist, I have a lot of experience with metacognition (thinking about the way I think), yet, I am human. Hence, there are days I want to give up. And some days feel like a waste.
Here are some questions I started to use to help me find peace, meaning, and learning outside of the specific events of the day. I only choose one or two because it’s easy to do before I fall asleep.
I hope you see something that helps you. I hope you have the courage to start again.
Morning
What am I grateful for?
How will I make this day great?
Evening
Did you touch somebody today?
Did any of your stress come from blessings?
What are you proud of?
What can you change?
What do you need to let go of?
What made you smile?
What negativity to you need to let go of?
Have you forgiven yourself?
For Tomorrow
What will you do differently?
Will you live according to your beliefs and priorities?
What will you do to make tomorrow amazing?
And For the Long-Term
Have you made peace with dying?
What do you need to do to live fully?