How to Overcome Discouragement
Discouragement comes in different forms. A mother tells her children they could not do sports because they do not have the build. It could also be a friend criticizing you for applying for a managerial position or a spouse stopping you from doing business. They may be truthful in a way but their discouragement hurts and disheartens you.
The simplest definition of discouragement is losing confidence and enthusiasm in doing something. When you are discouraged by people, especially those who are close to you, you feel so many negative emotions. You become sad, confused, scared, uncertain and worried.
Overcoming Discouragement
You have experienced discouragement at some point in your life. You know how hard it is to deal and how it easily leads you to self-doubt and hopelessness. The dangers of discouragement often pave the way to a trap that you cannot easily escape. It can also be the cause of serious concerns like depression and anxiety.
However, the best way to deal with discouragement is to learn how to overcome it in your way. It may take some time but overcoming discouragement makes you a better and stronger individual.
1. Know your strengths.
Most times, people discourage you from doing something because they think that you do not have the ability or the intelligence. It sounds like they are belittling you but they are doing it with good intentions. But still, it pains you to hear negative words.
Knowing your strengths and skills allow you to do the things that you know you can do. Enhance your strengths to be better no matter what other people say. If you feel that you still need to improve, take time to hone your skills. You can achieve anything as long as you work hard for it.
2. Surround yourself with optimistic people.
One of the best ways to overcome discouragement is to stay away from people who have nothing else to say but judgment and harsh criticisms. Some people discourage you because they are jealous and are afraid that you will be more successful than them. Whatever their reasons may be, stay away from people who only see your flaws.
Optimistic people radiate good vibes which you need to have a happy and successful life. The last thing you need is to be surrounded by people who will constantly rain on your parade.
3. Remember all your victories and achievements.
Experiencing failure is part of life because this is how you learn to stand up and try again. Whether you have failed and been discouraged countless times, you must bear in mind that you are not a failure. These are just humps that you have to go through to grow and mature.
Whenever you face failure and discouragement, recollect all the good memories and the wondrous feeling when you won the spelling bee, got accepted into your dream school, or placed first place in a dance contest. Use your past achievements as a basis that you can do anything as long as you put your mind and heart to it.
Overcoming discouragement can be difficult to handle especially if you are used to winning. Oftentimes, experiencing failure leads you to believe that you are incompetent and worthless. Remember that what you experience now is your stepping stone towards your ambition.
4. Have faith.
Losing faith can be the ultimate betrayal that you can do to yourself. People’s words and opinions about you are beyond your control. There is nothing you can do to change their minds. Despite all the difficulties and disappointments you encounter, you should never doubt yourself.
Trust yourself that one day you will live the life you have always wanted.
5. Do something good.
When you feel discouraged, you feel down and sad. It seems that it is the end of the world and nothing can be done to make your situation better. The best thing to do is find ways that will make you feel good. Sometimes you are blinded by your bad experience that you forget about all the blessings you have.
Do something meaningful and helpful to the people around you. Helping others brings you joy and boosts your confidence. It is a way of encouraging yourself to work harder. Reaching out to people who need help is your way of lifting your spirits.
Living amidst Discouragement
When you try to live a good life yet people keep on discouraging and criticizing you, gradually you feel depressed, lonely and anxious. Their negativities and lack of support push you to lose trust and confidence in yourself. You become scared of trying new things because your head is filled with words of disapproval.
Overcoming discouragement requires a strong will and a positive mindset. The moment you allow discouragement to conquer your thoughts, you will surely fail. Let all negativities slide because they are there to mold you into the best version of yourself.
Depression can sometimes be the cause of discouragement. Keep your mind healthy but if things become unbearable, seek help from medical professionals. Mindshift Psychological Services extends help to those who are drowned in fear, uncertainty and discouragement.
Visit our website to know more about our services. You may also contact us at (714)584-9700.
