If life is getting overwhelming, sometimes it helps to focus on the next step, not whatever lies beyond that. If you’re like me and wake up dreading what the day brings, don’t look too far ahead. Even getting out of bed is a good start.
Move away from the heap of worries pressing you down, and focus on one thing. If you find lists helpful, don’t let them feed your anxiety. Make a list of all the good things you have in your life, and let that lift you up. In my line of vision I see weights I could use to strengthen my arms, or ones I could put round my ankles. Maybe I’ll put them on today, or maybe I will start with one set. Step by step is a good approach, because it means you are moving forward. I could sit here for hours fretting about my wasting muscles, or I could lift up one weight and make a start on changing my situation.
Do you feel pushed into the ground by life? Try taking one step and then another. Before you know it, you will be flying. Making a tiny change can lead to better and better things. If you have a dream that your head tells you is impossible, see if you can break it down into small, manageable steps. I have this dream of setting my feet onto a sandy beach. In a few days time I will be in a house right beside one and I’m already trying to figure out how I can get my unsteady self onto it. Maybe a strong man on either side of me…. One foot in front of the other..
If there’s a mountain in front of you, turn your attention away from it and see if you can focus on an easier way to walk away. Putting your hand into someone else’s can often help. If you can’t manage the steps by yourself, is there someone near who can carry you?
I’ll leave you with one of my favourite verses. Again, it’s a hope for me, and you too.
A room of one's own 