Chin Up, Darling

Chin up, darling. It's something I'm sure we've all heard or been told before.

We all have bad days. Sometimes, we have bad weeks, months, or even years. Instead of facing what's causing the pain, people just tell you to stay positive. Hold your head high. Keep your chin up. But I'm going to tell you something different. Here's a few different ways to move through the pain and become the positive person you want to be:

1. Wallow. Before you can hold up your head, you need to wallow. Don't live in wallowing ways, but take an hour or even a day to just wallow. What you're going through is hard, don't try to deny that. People have told me before to be positive because there are people going through worse things than me. This is true, but it doesn't mean you shouldn't have emotions or feel upset for feeling bad. So instead of trying to hold it all inside, just wallow for a little while. Go boxing or to a shooting range or even just stay home and get out a good cry. Whatever you choose to do, I promise you'll feel better after.

2. Visualize. Think about the life you want. The life you crave for yourself. Imagine how wonderful it will feel when that dream comes true. Now that you know what you want, you can move to the next step.

3. Think about how you can move towards that dream. Is it something you can change or is it out of your control? If it is something you can change, then do it. Work everyday to move towards that life. If it's something you can't change, accept it. Be patient with yourself. Know that you're doing the absolute best you can, and that's enough. Keep that dream with you though, because one day it might turn into something you can control.

4. Make a list and set goals. Write a list of everything that makes you happy or brings a smile to your face. The list can be as long as you want it to be. Now that you have your list, set small goals for yourself. Do one thing from your list every week. Your happiness should be your first priority.

5. Chin up. Now that you've worked through this, you are strong enough to keep your chin up. Know that you are stronger than what brings you pain. We all have a cross to carry in this world, and this is yours. Know that even though it's hard, you can turn it into something good. Be an inspiration to others. Recognize the ways you can bless and touch someone's life by being your happy self. Do good for yourself, and do good for others.

I pray these tips help you to move through your pain and make your life a little bit happier.

--Kelsey Lynn <3