You can learn a lot from hitting rock bottom. It’s a terrible place to be and I don’t wish it upon anyone – but the lessons I learned have carried with me ever since it happened. Today, I’m a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in helping others break free from the cycle of addiction. I’m currently writing my first book called Life Lessons from Rock Bottom – and below is a sneak peak of it.I’m ready to share my experiences with you, in the hope that even the small things I learned can help you in a big way. Here is some of the best advice I’ve found to help get motivated – even in the most difficult of times:
- Make your goals public. Whatever it is you’re struggling with, let a friend or family member know. You should also share your goals with them and choose one person to be your “confessional.” If you don’t do something you said you were going to, tell them. Being honest with them can help you get it off your chest so you don’t have to feel guilty about it and instead can clear your head and move on.
- Learn from your mistakes. Many people are so afraid of making a mistake that they don’t take risks. Looking back, I’ve never made a mistake (big or small) that I didn’t learn an important lesson from. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
- Find your slogan or mantra. It can be a bible verse, meditation passage, or even something you make up on your own. Find a passage that speaks to you and motivates you. When you’re struggling or feel discouraged, take a few deep breaths and repeat the passage in your head.
- Be active. No matter what it is you’re struggling with, experts have proven that exercise can help calm your mind and even make you more productive. Get out there and do something, whether it’s a short jog, a walk through your neighborhood or maybe even a gym class. Getting away for exercise will not only help you live a healthier lifestyle, but will also help take your mind off of things and perhaps even give you a new perspective.
- Step out of your comfort zone. Trying something new can be scary, but it’s also necessary for change, and I’ve learned that great discoveries can be made when you step outside of your comfort zone.
- Stay “in the moment.” This is one of those things that helped me the most – remembering that this moment is precious and it could be all we have. Whether you’ve been putting off finding a job, going to the gym, or something else entirely, remind yourself that this moment is it. And if you waste it, you may not get another chance.
- Dedicate an hour or more each day for “you” time. One of the biggest ways to grow as a person is to spend time on personal development. Set aside one hour each day and do something that makes you happy. Take a yoga class, read a good book, or listen to an inspirational audiobook.
About the Author
Angela Weber's a licensed clinical social worker specializing in addiction recovery and writing her first book - Life Lessons from Rock Bottom based on personal and professional observations from the past 20 years of her life.
Photo: Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
