Do Your Remember? Antidotes for Facing Forward Optimistically

The world is in a weird place right now. Full stop.

So there is no surprise when I converse with friends, family members, and colleagues who feel just as equally out of sorts with the current state of affairs, thus prompting many to ask those “big” questions: What is my purpose? Do I even matter? What should I be doing? 

Aside from surviving the day-to-day realities of a world in constant chaos, attempting to answer any of those questions can bring about fatigue that can’t be articulated or explained. We’re reminded to keep the faith, do the work, find your village, and tap into a higher source all to stay grounded but our internal compasses struggle to figure out the “how” as we’re easily distracted by the noise until we’re paralyzed into a state of complacency, contempt, or confusion. Just know you’re not alone. And while we all figure out our next moves, consider four simple acts that I often employ that can help restore your reverence in the interim, renew your purpose, and recalibrate your steps.

Remind Yourself of Who You Are

Got a certificate of achievement? Company award? An impressive resume? Even a “thank you” card from a friend or neighbor? Yep, pull any of those out, re-read them, and relish in the reality that, at some point, you rose to the occasion—even exceeded it—and did the damn thing, which means you can do it again! Often, we keep pushing forward without pausing to reflect on all we’ve already accomplished in the past thus adding to more burnout and fatigue. So, if just for a few minutes, pause to celebrate your “wins” before taxing yourself with conquering your next great feat.

90s Throwback. The "vest era." LOL. 

Remind Yourself of How Happy You Can Be

Remember the silly photo you took with your siblings at the last family reunion or that photo at the club with your crew when nobody could tell you y’all weren’t the flyest in the spot? Or maybe it’s that candid photo with you holding your new niece or nephew that captured a joy that can’t be explained? Photos not only remind us of the good times but can boost endorphins as well. A 1995 study by FUJIFILM North America Corporation and clinical psychologist and mental health expert Dr. Lauren Cook, revealed that across demographics, 74% of respondents look at photos to relive personal memories and to evoke feelings of joy and connection as an important part of their emotional health. As a result, 58% stated doing so reduced anxiety and 49% felt instantly uplifted. So, go ahead, pull out that photo album (physical or digital) and let those old smiles create new ones.

Remind Yourself That This Too Shall Pass

Here’s a two for one. When looking at past photos do not let feelings of regret replace the feelings of good (i.e., stop perseverating on the few pounds you may have gained or the few follicles of hair you may have lost 😉). But use those photos as a reminder that evolution is possible. Whether it’s photos of acquaintances you no longer engage with because it was in misalignment with where you were heading or a home or city you’ve since moved from or even a fun flick when you sported Madness gear from head to toe and vowed you always would (shout out to my DMV folks. LOL), you’ll be reminded that nothing—person, place, or thing—must last forever and that change is possible and does happen but, more importantly, that you survived it and are possibly even thriving from it. You’ve lived (perhaps many lives). Be grateful for the experience, acknowledge those changes that needed to happen, and continue to look forward with optimism that all things happen not just for a reason but when and how they should.

Remind Yourself of Whose You Are

God got you. Period. And there’s no better way to show gratitude for that and to remind others of that as well than to be an extension of His love and His promise by giving back. In my opinion, there is no greater endorphin than that which comes from altruism. Whether you give back through an organization whose mission is to help marginalized communities, volunteer to coach a little league sports team, mentor young adults through the church’s youth ministry, or simply pay for the food order of the person behind you in the drive-thru line, you will NEVER feel bad about doing good. And you’ll put a smile on someone else’s face and in their heart as well. And isn’t that what the love of God is ultimately all about? As we are reminded by Hebrews 13:16: "Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased".

Yep, tomorrow will continue to be uncertain, especially in these current perilous times but, as my late father would always remind me, “Keep hangin’ in and holdin’ on.” So look for those tiny ways to reflect, be reminded, and do good, and trust that all things will work out in due time as they often always do. As author and motivational speaker Wayne Dyer says, "If you believe it will work out, you'll see opportunities. If you believe it won't, you will see obstacles". Fix your focus, keep the faith, and embrace the future.

Happy Spring, everyone!

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