Part three of "Finding Hope"

This is the third of a series on finding hope.

Two weeks ago, I about finding hope in times of uncertainty and wrote two blogs on this topic, which you can find on my blog (on my Jehle-coaching website).

Here are some more ideas that can help you to find hope:

7. Know yourself and know your values – this can keep you firmly grounded.

Values are the things that give our lives purpose and meaning, and they don’t change even when the world around us does.

Reflecting on what truly matters can anchor us and help us feel hopeful about moving forward in difficult times. It will help you in times of transition, too. Remembering what makes us passionate will move us forward on solid ground.

I had a conversation about this with someone yesterday and her answer was: dance! How wonderful and what a great metaphor for us all: what makes you dance?

Knowing the “why” in your situation will give you a focus and when you reach a goal, it will help you to remember that there is a bigger picture.

Victor Frankl also said – “Between stimulus and response there is a space.  In that space is the power to choose our response.  In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”  We should make it a practice to make our response one of peace as often as we can.

EXERCISE: Find your WHYs!

It is time to identify your whys (your values).

Spend some time reflecting on what’s most important to you—whether it’s kindness, creativity, learning, or helping others. If you need help with a list, just email me and I can help you out.

Write down four or five big “whys” that fit you. Your values can act as a compass, guiding your choices through uncertain times.

Finally, when you are finished with your reflection, write the values down and put them somewhere where you can see them. If you still need to have more direction, write me for a personal conversation.

Then make your decisions based on your whys.

Remember then to make choices that reflect these core values. If connection is important to you, prioritize relationships; if creativity inspires you, find ways to express it.

Living in alignment with your values can foster a sense of fulfillment, even when the future is unclear.

8.Take GOOD care of yourself!

Uncertainty can be quite stressful, and we often criticize ourselves for not “handling it better,” whatever that “it” might be. Hindsight is always clearer that seeing into the future.

Self-compassion—being kind and understanding toward yourself—can help you stay hopeful and resilient. This includes more positive self-talk, so talk to yourself as you would your friend. Remind yourself that it’s okay to feel unsure and that you’re doing your best.

9. Know and acknowledge your strengths.

Reflect on times you’ve faced challenges before and what strengths helped you get through them. This recognition can reinforce your confidence and help you stay hopeful. Again, we could have a conversation about this, if you have a hard time recognizing what your strengths are.

REMEMBER: Every day is a gift and is meaningful.   Hope isn’t just about the big picture; it can also come from small, meaningful moments in our day-to-day lives. Finding joy in these small things can help us stay positive and centered. (more about that and moving onto a sustainable path next time)

Until next time, enjoy your week and may you be hopeful, despite your circumstances.

Patricia Jehle            patricia@jehle-coaching.com