…..keep on moving.
It’s a title to catchy country song by Rodney Atkins. It’s also real life.
Have you ever experienced a “rough” patch or all out full on attack? If not, please stop reading this blog as you will have no idea what I’m talking about. AND, you’re like the only person on the planet who hasn’t.
For those still reading, we can relate to one another.
I recently survived a full on surprise attack. One thing led to another, and the blows kept coming. However, right in the midst, I stopped and decided I wanted to create a system for future encounters because let’s face it ain’t over until we’re over.
Let’s face it, life can be tough. We’re either ending a battle, going through one, or gearing up for one. Regardless of the phase or season, here’s a four part process to help get through to the other side. Instead of giving in or giving up, we can R.I.S.E..
Recognize this is only temporary. No attack has lasted forever. It may seem like it at the time and yes, some situations last way too long. When we take a step back and focus on getting through one day at a time, if needed one moment at a time, it can help put a perspective on the situation. As my grandmother used to say, “This too shall pass.”
Inspect what you expect. Is what’s going on right now a result of a dropped ball earlier? Were checks and balances ever put in place? What can you learn from this lesson in order to avoid a repeat in the future? No one person on this planet is perfect. When we assume someone else is always doing as expected without verification, we set ourselves as well as the other person for disappointment and possible complications.
Stay hydrated and well rested. For me, when I am stressed out, I tend to plow through. I want to get through the incident as quickly as possible. However, I am not a machine. When we are under more stress than usual, our bodies need more water and more rest. Which, at least for me, is counterintuitive. I have to force myself to drink extra water (to replace the sweating bullets and extra talking) and to slow down and be still. Meditation, a nap, a dark cool room for a few minutes in the heat of the encounter are healthy ways to fortify and get through.
Escape valves are necessary. “She’s gonna blow.” That’s a warning for Old Faithful, a blue whale or volcano; not a human. When we are facing duress, we need an escape valve and our mouths are not intended as the tool. It’s one thing to verbally process with a confidant, it’s another to gossip and or rip someone a new one. A few blows to a punching bag, a brisk walk, full throttle run, whatever physical exertion can be expressed is much healthier than trying to hold it all inside or spewing frustration, disappointment or hurt.
If you’re going through hell, yes, keep on moving and R.I.S.E. to get through it. And if you’re not right now, who do you know that is? Help them get through it and teach them to R.I.S.E.
Maranda Wynne -photo credit
This is a great read Daphne! It’s exactly the kind of stuff I talk about in group therapy in hopes of motivating people to never give up. You keep it going because you are spreading goodness! ??
Thank you Melody. I truly believe as long as we’re breathin’, there’s a reason. With hope, we can get through each moment of each day. Blessings on your and your service of others.
Awesome post Daphne! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you Brian. I know what you’ve gone through. I consider this a high compliment.