Don’t Just Survive, Thrive
My life has been a most interesting journey, one where I’ve experienced the highest of highs – leading with having my three children – and the absolute lowest of lows – losing my favourite daughter a few short years ago. Along the way, I’ve experienced numerous bouts of depression, traumas, major financial loss and grief. More challenges than some and far less than many.
Through it all, I’ve learnt that everyone has a story; that no-one goes through life unscathed by adversity or tragedy, and I’ve realised that when confronted with hardship, you can choose to deal with it or let it overwhelm you.
Anyone who has lost a loved one will know that there’s no such thing as ‘getting over it’ – an obscene phrase in my opinion – but you can choose to continue with life while carrying the pain. Sometimes it’s less difficult and sometimes it’s totally overwhelming.
Sadly, I have witnessed loved ones give in to despair. But I have also been inspired by those who have survived and are thriving. It’s not an easy path but the results are rewarding.
It’s important, when faced with adversity, to be resourceful and persistent in your efforts to work through it, and then, to keep moving forward. If you’re not making progress on your own, seek the advice of professionals who can help you on your journey. In my case, I found it valuable to get more than one opinion before deciding which route to take. And, if at any point you find that the route you’ve chosen isn’t working, change it. Making mistakes helps us correct our direction and steers us onto new and better paths.
Once you’ve dealt with your crisis, don’t dwell on it as it will only drag you down. While I have been thrown onto a painful path not of my choosing, I have decided to see and enjoy the wonders of life while carrying my pain. I have chosen to be a survivor, not a victim. And, in the glorious words of Maya Angelou (this quote is especially for my eastern suburbs friends): “I’ve learnt that even when I have pains, I don’t have to be one.”
There was a time that I went out in search of excitement. Now, I seek peacefulness. While there will always be excitement ahead, I prefer to follow my mantra: “Life is not simple, but don’t make it complex.”
In closing, I’d like to sum my thoughts up with another Maya Angelou quote: “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humour, and some style.”
Emotional Rescue Seminar
On Thursday, July 13, I’ll be co-presenting a seminar titled Emotional Rescue with my therapist, Sharon Turton. Sharon has been an incredible support to me over the years and I have recommended her to many people. During the seminar, I will be talking about some of the trials and tragedies I have faced in my life and sharing how I have dealt with them.
To book, please visit elixr.com.au/rescue. The seminar is free of charge and friends and family are very welcome to attend.
