A Practical Walk

I was talking to someone recently about fighting self-pity. It’s a trap that we tumble into quickly. Even though it’s easy to fall into, it’s tough to climb back out of. So since I was thinking about the ways I fight to get out of pity-party pit, I thouvght I’d type it up while it’s fresh on my mind:

1. Writing down what I’m thankful for. Sometimes I just list things in my head, but if I’m actually writing them down it feels more concrete and my mind is less likely to wander.
2. Talking to someone. This one is tricky, because if I talk about my problems too much, I’m then thinking more about them. So this is helpful when it’s benefiting me. If it’s just an excuse to feel more sorry for myself, it makes things worse.
3. Getting out in nature. And by nature, I don’t mean it has to be in the middle of a forest with no people or buildings around (although that might be nice). Right now in my life it means going on a walk with the sun on my skin and looking at the big beautiful Texas sky.
4. Getting some exercise. My favorite exercise right now is walking, with a little running sprinkled in. Good news! This goes hand-in-hand with the above mentioned getting out in nature!
5. Getting some time alone. I love to be with people, but alas, I do enjoy being by myself at times. Sometimes being alone means taking advantage of the occasions when all my family members are gone at the same time. Or it might mean hanging out in my bedroom or…going on a walk! So walks help me me in 3 ways: outdoors, exercise, and alone time!
6. Doing something for others. I tend to forget this one, but it really is good for not only the person I’m helping, but myself. It helps me get my mind off me. This could mean something as quick and simple as sending a text message or it might mean sending a pacakge or going out with someone and asking them about their life.
7. Do something productive. Like organizing and decluttering! I enjoy this, plus I get to have something look nicer when I’m done!
8. Read Scripture that has meant a lot to me before. Chances are if it meant a lot to me then, it’ll encourage me again. I might simply read it or I might write it out. One of the ladies I really look up to is always writing Scripture out and it inspires me.
9. Get around people. This is the opposite of what I mentioned before about being alone, but being around people is so important! Even if I’m the newbie and it’d be easier to stay home. It’s good to go to that Bible study, visit those people or attend that party. Recently I went to a ladies’ event that really helped put things into perspective. I had been feeling like so many hard things were hitting me, but as I listened to lady after lady share some of the things they’ve dealt with, I was reminded that while my problems are hard, others are stuggling too.
10. Make some plans. Sometimes the things I’m feeling sorry for myself about are things I can actually control. In those cases, sitting down and writing out some lists is helpful. Grocery list, menu plan, or to do lists are the begining of getting things done (instead of just wallowing in my self-pity over them).

What are ways you fight your way out of the pity-party pit?