Often, a good quote will arrive at the perfect moment.
Just when you need them, they tend to come to mind!
Let me explain...
I've lived long enough to hear my fair share of difficult stories. Colleagues, friends, and family members I'm close with have all walked through challenging situations that attack the positive perspective they desire to keep.
Recently, I spoke with a friend in a situation like this. His challenge is at work. As he described the toxicity of his workplace and the lack of emotional intelligence his leader displayed, his whole demeanor descended -- mirroring the decay he described feeling in his soul each day as he made the long commute to work.
(Have you ever been there before?)
I simply listened and provided space for him to process his feelings. I wanted to do more but didn't know what else to do.
(Isn't it hard to want to help but not know the best way to go about it?)
Toward the end of our conversation, I was looking for a way to restore hope and encourage him through his struggle when this quote came to mind:
"If we learn to appreciate more of what we already have, we'll find ourselves having even more to appreciate." ~Michael Angier
I asked him to tell me one thing he was excited about -- and I waited while he thought about it.
Seconds later, he told me about a date he and his wife went on. They had a phenomenal time connecting over deep conversation and excellent cajun food. He described the savory entrees, the fun atmosphere, and how the time connecting together was exactly what was needed. Their date triggered a great weekend and less stress in their family.
His demeanor once again changed, and he even smiled a bit.
I was grateful.
It was inspiring to hear his appreciation cascading into greater appreciation.
That's the funny thing about gratitude. As you stop to appreciate your blessings, you discover even more to be grateful for.
Gratitude shifts focus from your challenges to your blessings. And from there, it cascades into even more gratitude.
If you're in a difficult situation today, I'm sorry. It is no fun to walk through challenging times. Challenges, if left unchecked, can consume your focus and usher you into negativity quickly.
But what if today you stopped to think about something for which you're grateful? Or consider something that really excites you. Reflect on what these things mean to you -- and why they are special to you. Then, take a moment to truly appreciate them -- and see what else bubbles up.
Maybe even through a struggle, you'll also find a reason to smile.
For your growth,
Paul
Certified Coach, Bill Cox Coaching
