Sometimes life is so stressful and sad that keeping a positive attitude is all but impossible.
When it rains, it pours, and when it seems like your life is one tragedy after another, it makes sense that you’d start to feel hopeless and wonder what’s even the point anymore. Of course, there are so many wonderful reasons to keep on going. Life is a precious gift, even if it doesn’t feel like it at times. When you’re at your lowest, here are some important reminders.
1. Feelings aren’t facts.
It’s easy to feel like the way you’re feeling now is how you’ll always feel, but emotions are temporary. They come and go, like waves, and today’s heaviness won’t last forever. Recognising this can create space for hope to sneak back in. Give yourself permission to feel without attaching permanence to the pain.
2. You’ve overcome hard times before.
Think back to a time when you thought things couldn’t get better—but they did. You’ve already proven your strength in ways you might not even realise. Reminding yourself of your resilience can be a powerful motivator. The version of you that got through those challenges is still here, ready to handle this one.
3. You don’t have to solve everything today.
Sometimes, hopelessness comes from feeling overwhelmed by the weight of everything all at once. Break it down—focus on just one small step forward. Even the tiniest progress counts, and you don’t need to have all the answers right now. Giving yourself permission to take things one moment at a time can be incredibly freeing.
4. Life is full of surprises.
It might not feel like it right now, but life has a way of surprising us in the best ways. A random encounter, a new opportunity, or even just a really good laugh with a friend can change your perspective. Staying open to the unexpected can keep a spark of hope alive. Remember, the next twist in your story could be the one that changes everything.
5. You don’t have to do it alone.
Reaching out to someone—a friend, family member, or professional—can make a world of difference. Sharing what’s on your mind lightens the emotional load and reminds you that you’re not in this by yourself. Sometimes, just saying it out loud can create a sense of relief. People care about you more than you might realise.
6. Your value doesn’t depend on your circumstances.
It’s easy to tie your self-worth to external things—like a job, a relationship, or a certain milestone—but your value as a person is inherent. Who you are, at your core, is enough. Reminding yourself of this truth can help you detach from the pressures of “having it all together.” You’re worthy, just as you are.
7. Small joys add up.
Sometimes, finding happiness feels impossible because we’re looking for something big. But tiny moments—like a good laugh, your favourite song, or a beautiful sunset—can quietly remind you of life’s sweetness. Pay attention to those small joys; they have a way of stacking up. Even on hard days, little wins count.
8. Comparison steals contentment.
Scrolling through social media can trick you into thinking everyone else has it all figured out, but remember: it’s a highlight reel, not real life. Comparing your struggles to someone else’s curated version of their life is unfair to you. Focus on your own journey—it’s the only one that truly matters. Celebrate your pace, even if it feels slow.
9. Progress isn’t always linear.
Healing, growth, and success don’t happen in straight lines. It’s normal to take a step back before moving forward again. Embracing this truth can take the pressure off and remind you that setbacks are part of the process. Even a zigzag path can lead to something beautiful in the end.
10. It’s okay to ask for help.
Struggling doesn’t mean you’re failing; it means you’re human. Getting support—from a therapist, a family member, or a close friend—is a sign of strength, not weakness. Sometimes, leaning on other people is the best way to find your footing again. Help is out there, and you don’t have to face this alone.
11. Gratitude can shift your perspective.
When life feels overwhelming, taking a moment to list even the smallest things you’re grateful for can help reframe your mindset. It doesn’t have to be big—warm socks, a kind smile, or a favourite snack all count. Gratitude doesn’t erase problems, but it can remind you of the good that still exists.
12. Every day is a chance to start fresh.
No matter how tough today feels, tomorrow offers a blank slate. Each sunrise is a reminder that you can try again, with no judgment for what’s behind you. Give yourself permission to embrace a new beginning, even if it’s just one small step at a time. Fresh starts are always available, whenever you’re ready.
13. Your story isn’t finished yet.
Feeling stuck can make it seem like this chapter is the whole book—but it’s not. You have so much left to experience, learn, and discover. The possibilities for your future are endless, even if they feel hard to imagine right now. Your journey is still unfolding, and hope has a way of finding you when you least expect it.
14. You are stronger than you think.
Hopeless moments have a way of making us forget how resilient we really are. But think about all the challenges you’ve faced and how you’ve come through them. You have strength you haven’t even tapped into yet. Trust in your ability to weather this storm, and remember, even the hardest days don’t last forever.
