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Making problems positive

Humans love to problem solve. We even create problems to solve - videogames, Sudoku, crosswords - because something in our brain enjoys the challenge of overcoming obstacles.

But when it comes to day to day life, we’re the opposite. We tend to see problems as a sign of failure, as though there’s something we’ve done to deserve them. Sometimes though, bad things just happen.

How we deal with challenges in life makes the difference between a happy life, and one that is full of frustration, self doubt and regret. Don’t let problems get the better of you - let them bring the best out in you!

Don’t let it get you down.
It can be hard not to feel discouraged when things go wrong, but focussing on how much of a failure you are and dwelling on how much the situation sucks can stop you seeing a solution to whatever challenge you face. Everyone’s a victim at some point, and it’s important to remember tough times happen to all of us.

There’s always a way out, and bad things aren’t always your fault.

When negatives are positive.
Problems aren’t always a bad thing: they teach us about ourselves, they give us opportunities to grow. They encourage us to find solutions and inspire change. Next time you’re faced with a challenge that seems insurmountable, close your eyes, feel whatever you’re feeling - then put those emotions to one side.

Easier said than done I know, but a little objectivity and a calm mind will help you find a solution so much quicker!

“People without real problems go mad and invent things like base jumping and wedding planning. Real problems are wonderful, each carrying the seeds of its own solution. Job burnout? It’s steering you toward your perfect career. An awful relationship? It’s teaching you what love means. Confusing tax forms? They’re suggesting you hire an accountant, so you can focus on more interesting tasks, such as flossing. Finding the solution to each problem is what gives life its gusto.” - Martha Beck

Likewise, Buddhism teaches that - instead of being a sign of failure - problems are a gift. It also teaches that, “pessimism and depression never help in finding a good solution to any problem,” (The Precious Garland Of Advice For The King). So true!

Be an Edison, not an Eeyore.
Don’t get me wrong, sometimes life sucks and, of course, it’s ok to feel that way. But adopting a victim mentality will only turn you into a victim, and keep you there. We’ve all heard the story of Thomas Edison, who made a zillion bad lightbulbs before he hit on a winning formula. He understood that the answer was out there - he just needed to be patient and keep looking for it. Someone like Eeyore (if donkey’s were scientists!), would’ve given up after the first bad bulb proved they were a failure.

Remember: Life is not an obstacle course designed to make you lose. It’s a series of highs and lows, problems and breakthroughs - for all of us.

Article by Sarah Illingworth. Who is Sarah? Find out here and meet the rest of the 24/7 Girl team too. And don’t forget to check out Sarah’s blog here!



Comon Discuss It..
Some helpful thoughts, thanks! I think its awesome that more people are coming out and speaking about their struggles with depression. It takes a lot of guts to talk about something that still has a certain stigma to it. Openness is the key, one day people will realise it is a real illness and its nothing to be ashamed about!
Posted by aimsy30 "on" 11/29 "at"08:18 PM
noone new i was deppressed and got threw it with the help of mates that i know i will have for a life time. ive told my mum she thought i was dumb., but the fact was that even i dont know wat i was depressed about? i have the best parents in my oppion ever!! xoxox <3 but i think it was stuff at school that happened <bulled by this 1 guy and still dnt knw y?> and some otha stuff to ,. but theres always a way threw it and a light in the dark. now im such a p[ositive girl outgoing and always happy. im always going to be thank full to the people who helped me threw my rough patch., smile
Posted by Honeyrimz "on" 10/06 "at"12:42 PM
I think the problem is the way we percieve our problems rather than the problems themselves. These ‘problems’ can often be a blessing in disguise.
FOr example, I had depression for a long time. I kept focusing on the depression and feeling bad about feeling bad. I read this article, and it really changed the way I looked at depression. It said that depression is a gift, because it’s a catalyst for change. Certain things in my life, just weren’t right for me. The depression forced me to look at my life and change what wasn’t working, rather than if I didn’t have depression I wouldn’t have tried to changed and would be stuck living a life that just ‘wasn’t working’.
Posted by 21991 "on" 02/11 "at"09:30 PM
great advice
Posted by POWERBALLIN25 "on" 08/13 "at"01:09 AM
i like Eeyore too!
Posted by Xxc0rtxX "on" 08/12 "at"03:58 PM
Yeah i got the black dog book ot from the libaray and my partner read it, but i was just in that state where i didnt even want to read. might get it out again tho
Posted by Xxc0rtxX "on" 08/12 "at"03:57 PM
Some really good advice there. I annoy lots of my friends and family coz I just shrug problems off I dont let them bug me…life is like a box of chocolates, lol
Posted by tkennard "on" 08/10 "at"05:59 PM
I love eeyore
Posted by tkennard "on" 08/10 "at"05:58 PM
Life is like a roller coster
Posted by Impy "on" 08/09 "at"09:19 PM
Cup half full,not half empty!
Posted by Xxc0rtxX "on" 08/08 "at"09:09 PM
tru dat, blud. problems is sikk.
Posted by spami "on" 06/14 "at"09:52 PM

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