The top 5 things to help you through the challenging moments in life

The top 5 things to help you through the challenging moments in life

To say this has been a challenging year would be an understatement. So many people lost their jobs, the freedoms we took for granted were taken away and we were separated from loved ones.

For me it was particularly hard – not only did I lose a lot of business but a few weeks ago my Mother passed away and I became a part time carer for my Dad. My fingers and toes are crossed that 2021 will be a better one than this one.

So here are my top 5 things to keep in mind when you next go through those difficult moments in life.

1. Your health and fitness are the MOST important things in your life

I remember my Mother always telling me “well at least you have your health” when I was young. I always took it for granted but as I get older (and have now hit 50 years), I realise how true this statement is. If you don’t believe me, ask someone who has cancer, dementia, Parkinson’s, MS – what they would want more than anything else?

2. Family and friends are so important

I feel blessed for having wonderful parents, a loving partner and loyal and supportive friends. Having a strong network of supportive friends and family, gives us a sense of belonging, helps us with new experiences, gives us positivity and helps us get through the tough times.

3. Appreciate what you have

It is easy to get self-absorbed in your own life and forget just how good you have it.

Just by living in Australia, we have a massive head start in life compared to so many other people in the world. We have plentiful food, clean water, wonderful weather, a home to live in and freedom – something we often take for granted.

Never compare yourself to others, educate yourself about those who are less fortunate than you and don’t forget to count your blessings (there are a lot more than you think).

4. Exercise is so important for physical and mental health

If there was a year where exercise was critical, it was this one.

There are a multitude of physical benefits to exercise such as losing/controlling weight, reducing body fat, lowering the risk of heart disease, strokes, cancer…well you get the idea.

But regular exercises is so important for your emotional and mental well-being such as reducing anxiety, giving you more self-confidence, gives you more energy, helps you sleep better and lowers mental and physical stress levels. The mental benefits are just as important as the physical ones.

5. Don’t sweat the small stuff

I get so frustrated when people fly into a rage about something they are not happy with or agree with (which can’t be good for their blood pressure). I often wonder what would happen if a real catastrophe happened to them!

All I can say is you have to put things in perspective – will this really affect your life? Will it matter in a day or a week? Don’t take things seriously, don’t get upset about minor issues and make sure you appreciate what you have today.