My last blog ‘Tips For Finding Joy in Life and Relationships’ made me cringe when I reread it. Nothing too terribly embarrassing, just an oversight which exposed me.
I suggested some ideas for helping folks who are depressed rise up out of that lonely place. I must acknowledge that I realize it is ridiculous to think a truly depressed person would read my blog and think, “oh that’s a good idea, I think I’ll try that!” I want to make it clear that I know doing anything to help yourself when you are depressed is very difficult. If you are depressed or know someone who is, you probably laughed at my suggestion. I accept that! I laughed too.
My hope is that you, if you know someone who struggles with depression, would come along side them. . . maybe you could ask them what they have planned that they are looking forward to. . . or maybe you could sit down and map out a few things over the next week or month. (Refer to my last post if this is unclear.)
If you struggle with depression yourself, my hope is that you would take one small step in making yourself smile. It’s so hard to remember, and these may be hard words to hear, but the truth is that no one has the power YOU have to make YOU smile. We can try all day everyday but until you make some effort, it won’t happen. You don’t have to plan a whole month’s worth of activities as I suggested. You might just start a list of things you enjoy – even if you can only think of one or two things at first. Or you might just DO something today. I hope one of the things you will do is pray, but here again, prayer is not a magic pill, we still have to make an effort.
I am not a therapist or psychologist and make no claims of that nature. What I know is from life experiences, from God and from my incredibly great coach training – namely from Laurie Hubbs and Christopher McCluskey.
I am convinced now more than ever that almost everyone of us struggle with negativity and many with depression from time to time. I am also firmly convicted that we, with God’s help, and much perseverance, have the power to change our thinking patterns.
Finding support is a great first step. If you are ready to get to work, coaching might be just what you need. I won’t listen to the same old story more than once or twice, so don’t call if you just want to complain or blame. However, if you are ready to get to work, it will be a rewarding journey. When you are ready to embark on that journey, my number is 425-269-4806.