Finding the Path Back to Hope
As a therapist, one of the most challenging emotions I observe is hopelessness. It's a heavy state, often characterized by a profound lack of motivation, difficulty seeing purpose, and a sense of deep despair. This overwhelming sorrow can make the prospect of creating change feel incredibly daunting. But how do we respond to this deep-rooted feeling?
A great way to start is to break down the word and focus on "hope." This shift in perspective allows us to focus on the ways we can actively work to instill hope, even when a situation seems devoid of it. The path back is unique for everyone, depending on the context:
In the Community: Feeling disconnected or hopeless about your community can be a call to action. Re-engaging through volunteering and giving back can be incredibly restorative.
In a Career: Hopelessness in a job setting may signal that it's time to explore new career options and pursue a more fulfilling path.
In Daily Life: When the feeling is pervasive, the first step can be incredibly small, such as simply committing to getting ready in the morning.
No matter the situation, taking a single step toward hope is the start of regaining it.
Shifting Focus: Control and Action
Hopelessness often takes root when we become fixated on things that are outside of our control. To create change, we must deliberately refocus our energy on what can be done and what we can control.
For example, while we cannot control what others say or do, we can control our own words, actions, and how we choose to present ourselves. When we dedicate our attention to the aspects of our lives that are within our power to change, we create space for hope to emerge.
The Power of Small Goals
Finally, instead of allowing a vast list of needs to overwhelm you, break down your larger goals into small, achievable, step-by-step actions. Faced with a list of twenty daunting tasks, it is easy to become overwhelmed and shut down. By focusing on only one small goal at a time, you are much more likely to achieve it. These small wins build momentum, proving that change is possible.
How do you navigate your own feelings of hopelessness? Whether this is a frequent challenge or a temporary hurdle, remember that every person and every situation is different. Creating a robust support system, both formal (like therapy) and informal (like friends and family), is an essential step in combating these challenging feelings.
Written by: Jordan Allen
