Navigating Life’s Challenges : A Personal Reflection Technique
Life isn't always easy. We all face days when we feel exhausted, stressed, and burned out. Today was one of those days for me, and I'd like to share how I felt and how I made it through.
The Paradox of Emotions
Sometimes, our emotions don't align with our circumstances. Despite recently securing my joining letter after a year of waiting - a moment that should bring joy and relief - I found myself inexplicably stressed and overwhelmed. It was as if I was lost in a void, unable to pinpoint the source of my distress.
A Simple Yet Effective Technique
When I reached my breaking point, I turned to a technique that has served me well in the past: the blank paper method.
1. Write It Out : I take a blank sheet of paper and write down everything I’m feeling. This helps me externalize my emotions and begin to make sense of them.
2. Self-Questioning : Based on what I’ve written, I ask myself probing questions. This process helps me drill down to the root of my problem.
3. Problem Identification : Through this brainstorming, I often realize what’s really bothering me - issues that might have been lurking beneath the surface.
4. Solution Seeking : Once I’ve identified the problem, I start searching for solutions. I firmly believe that we are often the best equipped to solve our own problems.
Key Questions to Ask Yourself
When using this technique, I focus on two fundamental questions:
1. What is my problem?
2. What is the answer?
The Power of Self-Reflection
I discovered this technique in my early adulthood when I didn't have many friends to confide in. I began keeping a diary, which became a source of comfort and guidance. Writing about my struggles, fears, and experiences helped calm my mind and provide clarity.
It may look like nonsense, but believe me it helped. When you write, it give you confirmation, confidence and belief.
Standing for Yourself
Through this process, I've learned the importance of standing up for oneself. While support from others is valuable, understanding and addressing our own emotional needs is crucial for personal growth and resilience.
Remember, it's okay to have bad days. What matters is how we choose to navigate through them and the tools we develop to understand ourselves better.
