Creating Hope in What Appears to be a Hopeless Time
The journey to hope starts with a solid foundation because, as with any strong structure, it must be able to stand the winds of storms. What do I manage my foundation? I lean into the practices that are part of my everyday. This practice is rooted in The Desire Map created by Danielle Laporte.
The Desire Map became a part of my journey a couple of years ago after suffering a significant injury and asking my world (i.e. I posted the question on social media): “What should I do with the next 17 weeks since I can’t walk?”
I got many great ideas, but I jumped into The Desire Map with both feet! (I'm punny 😉!).
I started by reading the book but quickly pivoted to also become a licensed facilitator of The Desire Map. During these two-day workshops, I guide clients through a process that focuses on five life areas:
1. Livelihood & Lifestyle
2. Body & Wellness
3. Relationships & Society
4.Creativity & Learning
5. Essence & Spirituality
The workshops start with a self-assessment of how we are feeling and what isn’t working in our life and then navigate towards how we want to feel. The workshops culminate in being able to articulate core desire feelings that will guide us forward.
The workshops are delivered online and in-person to individuals or groups. We certainly can’t cover the content in this blog, but each week in my newsletter, you will find a couple of connections to groups or services that are supporting us in focusing on hope.
In the meantime, here are some top tips to fuel your day and life with hope from Mindfuel Daily.
Reach Out To Others (Virtually)
No matter what’s on your mind or causing you to struggle, it’s nothing you should have to face alone. Turn to family, friends, or a trusted counselor via video-chatting services. Engage in an online community around you and create space for meaningful connections.
Express Gratitude
Listing what you’re thankful for may seem difficult when you’re struggling. But there’s always something to be thankful for. Whether it’s your health, your family, or even the sky above, take strength from that which is good and solid.
Be Kind
Kindness not only feels good, it is also good for you. Performing good deeds for others takes your mind off of your troubles and fosters relationships with those around you and in your community. You may even make a difference for someone else who is struggling. This could be as simple as sharing hopeful thoughts and quotes on Facebook or Instagram.
Take Care of Yourself
Get sleep, eat right, and do indoor activities that restore balance. When you feel stressed or overwhelmed, take breaks and engage in self-care. You can’t foster hope if your body is spent and your mind is flailing.
Have Goals
Think of something you’d like to work towards. Big or small, it doesn’t matter, as long as it’s meaningful and gives you a sense of purpose. Having a tangible goal will help you get up and face the day, even when all seems pointless.
Ask for Help
Asking for assistance can be scary, but it can also make a world of difference. You may be surprised at the solutions and ideas others can provide. Even if they don’t have the answers, they can give you the help and support you need to make it through a rough time. P.S. Reach out – I’m here for you.
Engage in Meaningful Action
You can’t control everything, but you can control some things. The antidote to despair and anxiety is action. Focus on the things that you can change for the better, no matter how small. Work with what you have one step at a time.
“Once you choose hope, anything’s possible.”
Christopher Reeve
