Disabilities Blog

Category: Motivation

Don't get discouraged, just try again

"People are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I don't believe in circumstances. The people who get on in the world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and if they can't find them, make them." -- George Bernard Shaw

This is one of my favorite quotes because it so simply reminds all of us not to get give up even if life circumstances are not ideal. All of us are dealing with difficult situations due to the current economic downturn. Many people are working more hours or are looking for jobs. Other people have additional expenses as employers cut back with benefits and salaries. If you have a disability this can become more complicated with medical expenses or special care required for daily living.

There are tremendous sacrifices being made by so many that it can become a depressing situation especially if it is directly affecting your family. So how do you remain positive and survive such tough times? What can you do to face the challenges in your life due to the economy or other situations beyond your control? Based on what I have experienced in life especially this past year here is what I can suggest:
1) Realize the tough times do not last, so eventually the light will emerge at the end of the dark tunnel.
2) Focus on being helpful to others. In times of difficulty don't just focus on your problems - realize others need help, too, and offer to do something real to help them.
3) Don't just complain if you don't have some solution in mind. Empowering yourself comes from doing something to solve your problem not just talking about the problem and whining about it.
4) Be patient and realistic. No big problem is resolved easily or quickly. It takes time and sometimes hard work to make life better for yourself. The setbacks that you will face should be not considered as failures but stepping stones to your eventual success.
5) Give yourself some credit, but don't brag. When you start to get back on the right track in life, give yourself some credit. You deserve to feel good, too, but you don't have to advertise constantly either. People will recognize your success, especially if you remain positive and humble.
6) Be grateful and appreciate everyone who helps you. Even if a situation did not turn out exactly the way you planned as you get through a crisis be grateful and thank others for their assistance.

The key in life for all of us these days is to remain optimistic and move forward. Making life better for others is essential when you realize your existence is important to more than just yourself. Stay strong during the difficulties and you will see the sun shine again.