There’s an undeniable link between our words and our emotional health.
When life throws curveballs, emotionally healthy people have a knack for keeping calm. They often do this by using certain phrases that help them maintain perspective.
These phrases aren’t just words. They are mantras that help them navigate through life’s choppy waters, allowing them to stay resilient even during tough times.
So, let’s explore these 8 short phrases that emotionally healthy people repeat when life gets tough. Trust me, adopting these into your own daily vocabulary could be a game-changer when it comes to handling adversity.
1) This too shall pass
Life is a rollercoaster, full of ups and downs. Emotionally healthy people understand this and are always prepared for the unexpected.
One phrase they often use when faced with adversity is “this too shall pass”. It’s a simple, yet powerful phrase that reminds us that nothing is permanent, not even our problems.
This phrase doesn’t mean they are dismissing or minimizing the problem. Instead, it’s an acknowledgement that even though things are tough right now, it won’t stay this way forever.
It’s a gentle reminder to themselves that change is the only constant in life and that better times will come.
So next time when life feels overwhelming, remember to remind yourself – this too shall pass. It’s a powerful mantra that can help you stay emotionally healthy and resilient during tough times.
2) I am enough
Sometimes, when life gets tough, it’s easy to start doubting ourselves. I’ve been there too, questioning my worth and abilities during difficult times.
One phrase that has helped me maintain my emotional health during these moments is “I am enough”.
“I am enough” is a powerful affirmation that emotionally healthy people often repeat to themselves. It’s a reminder that no matter what you’re facing, you have the strength and resilience to handle it.
I remember going through a particularly challenging project at work. The deadlines were tight and the stakes high. I was constantly doubting my ability to deliver, but then, I would remind myself “I am enough”. This phrase helped me stay focused, confident and emotionally healthy amidst all the pressure.
So whenever you find yourself doubting your worth or capabilities, just take a moment, breathe and remind yourself – “I am enough”. Trust me, it makes a huge difference!
3) Progress, not perfection
“Progress, not perfection” is another phrase that emotionally healthy people often use. It’s about focusing on the journey and not just the destination.
Perfection is an illusion. No one is perfect and expecting perfection from ourselves or others only leads to disappointment and stress. In fact, studies show that striving for perfection can lead to anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
On the other hand, focusing on progress encourages us to celebrate small victories and helps us stay motivated. It’s about acknowledging that we are human, susceptible to errors, and that it’s okay as long as we are learning and growing from them.
So next time you find yourself striving for perfection, take a step back and remind yourself – progress, not perfection. It’s a healthier and more realistic approach to dealing with life’s challenges.
4) I choose to respond, not react
Reacting is instinctive. It’s immediate and often driven by our emotions. Responding, on the other hand, involves a thoughtful process. It requires us to pause, process and then proceed.
Emotionally healthy people understand this difference and often use the phrase “I choose to respond, not react”.
This phrase encourages mindful decision-making. It’s about taking a moment before jumping to conclusions or making hasty decisions. It’s choosing to remain calm and composed, even when faced with adversity.
By choosing to respond and not react, we can avoid unnecessary conflict or regrettable decisions. So next time you find yourself in a challenging situation, take a deep breath and remind yourself – I choose to respond, not react.
5) I am grateful for…
When times get tough, it’s easy to lose sight of the good things in life. But emotionally healthy people have a way of finding silver linings even in the darkest clouds.
One phrase they often use to maintain perspective is “I am grateful for…”. This practice of gratitude has a profound impact on our emotional health.
Gratitude shifts our focus from what’s wrong in our lives to what’s right. It helps us appreciate the small joys and acknowledge the positive aspects, no matter how bleak the situation might seem.
So next time you’re feeling low, take a moment and think about what you’re grateful for. It could be something as simple as a warm cup of coffee or the comforting presence of a loved one. This shift in perspective can make a world of difference in how you navigate through tough times.
6) I will be kind to myself
In a world that’s always demanding more, it’s easy to be our own harshest critic. I’ve found that one phrase that helps maintain emotional health during such times is “I will be kind to myself”.
Being kind to oneself isn’t about making excuses for our mistakes. It’s about acknowledging that we are humans and we are bound to make mistakes.
I remember a time when I missed an important deadline at work. I was beating myself up over it, losing sleep and constantly replaying the situation. But then, I took a moment and told myself “I will be kind to myself”. This simple phrase helped me forgive myself, learn from the mistake and move forward.
So next time when things go wrong, instead of punishing yourself, try saying “I will be kind to myself”. Show yourself the same kindness and understanding you’d extend to a friend in a similar situation.
7) I control how I respond
Life is unpredictable and often, things don’t go as planned. But one thing we always have control over is how we respond to these situations.
Emotionally healthy people often use the phrase “I control how I respond”. It’s a reminder that while we can’t control external circumstances, we can control our reaction to them.
This phrase encourages personal responsibility. It empowers us to choose our reactions and not let our emotions get the better of us.
So next time when you’re faced with a challenging situation, remember, you may not be able to control what’s happening, but you definitely control how you respond to it. This sense of control can make a huge difference in your emotional health during tough times.
8) Everything I need is within me
When life gets tough, it’s easy to look for solutions outside. But the truth is, everything we need to handle these challenges is already within us.
Emotionally healthy people often remind themselves “Everything I need is within me”. It’s a powerful affirmation that reinforces their innate strength and resilience.
This phrase serves as a reminder that we are equipped with the necessary skills, courage, and fortitude to navigate through life’s ups and downs.
So when times get tough, don’t forget to look within. Trust yourself. You have everything you need to handle whatever comes your way.
Final thought: It’s all about perspective
Underpinning the power of these phrases is a fundamental truth about human psychology and emotional health.
Our words have a profound impact on our mindset, and in turn, our emotional wellbeing. The phrases we choose to repeat to ourselves can act as anchors, grounding us during turbulent times.
The secret lies in the power of positive self-talk. Psychological studies have shown that using positive affirmations can help manage stress and reduce negative thoughts. It’s not just about saying the words, but believing in them.
“This too shall pass”, “I am enough”, “Progress, not perfection” – these aren’t just phrases. They are reminders of our resilience, our strength, and our ability to navigate through life’s challenges.
So next time when life gets tough, remember these phrases. Use them, believe in them. Because at the end of the day, it all comes down to perspective. It’s how we choose to view and respond to our circumstances that defines our emotional health.
So, embrace these phrases. Let them guide you through your journey and help you maintain your emotional health no matter what life throws at you.
