Peace and happiness may not feel possible for some, but I’ve found ways to take initiative to make this a reality.
If I’m having a hard moment and start to spiral into negative thinking, the best way out is to realize that the only thing holding me back from experiencing joy is me! I often get hung up on wondering if others like me, value me, or appreciate me for who I am.
There’s a great saying to address this: What other people think of you is none of your business!
Living in such a high pressure society doesn’t always lend itself to finding peace. But we don’t have to believe our only avenue is some unrealistic escape to a remote tropical island. Peace can happen here and now.
I find that practicing positive thinking towards others is the key. If I get a sense that someone may not like me, I redirect into positive self talk (it’s none of my business, right?). I may not have control when it comes to how others think of me but I have all the control about what I believe. Besides, my peace is more important than their opinion.
This may sound dismissive or selfish but it makes me more capable of something that I can give to others: compassion. So, if someone is rude or curt, I give myself a moment to level-set emotionally. Then I choose to be generous and give them the benefit of the doubt. To top it off, I can even send a little wish to find joy soon.
After all, that’s how I’d like to be treated by others if I’m having a rough day!