At some point in our lives, all of us have heard one of these phrases:
Something is better than nothing.
Things could be worse.
It is what it is.
I’d rather have this than nothing at all.
I think it’s safe to say that often times these phrases are spoken under circumstances that are less than desirable. Of course, when a person is in a difficult situation, perhaps they feel their back is against a wall, it may seem that they have to take whatever hand life deals them. I definitely have been there.
I used to speak these dead-end phrases about my own life’s circumstances. Then I realized it was not the best perspective to have. I didn’t understand how I was actually unfolding a blanket of negativity over my life. I was subconsciously lowering my standards and settling for…whatever.
Accepting the reality of our circumstances is vital to our mental and emotional growth. Reality is what drives us to want to go to the next level in life. Sometimes that next level contains a road block or an obstacle. It can knock a person down and then one of those dead-end phrases starts to resurface. But that’s not where the journey ends.
Being content and grateful with where you are in life is very important. In fact, it paves the way for you to get to the next level. There is a fine line between being content and being stagnant. A mindset that fosters the belief that you are where you are, and that’s as good as it will get, will paralyze you in your tracks and stunt your growth.
So the next time you find yourself in a challenging situation and want to say one of those dead-end phrases, try one of these instead:
I’m glad I have the resources to deal with this.
This is a minor set-back.
Soon I will be in a much better situation.
This is a stepping stone.
Be easy beautiful people!