The Finish Line is Within Reach
This weeks blog is based on how far someone has come and that despite all the struggles the end of this turmoil is within sight.
I have been working with over 150 men in the past 4 ½ years, some can get back to their equilibrium quickly, while others it is more of a marathon than a sprint. The one thing that connects all of these events is that there is a finish line to reach, not to end and backslide, but to reach and enable that point to be a metaphoric line to wellness.
Several of the men I work with have been with me for over 2 years and are all moving at a different pace, but the key is that they are moving forwards, learning to offload, to share and are open to learn how they can best manage their own mental health. One of the key points I use is to reflect on where someone began and where they are now. Looking back for a short time can be a real positive, to see where the journey of suicidal thoughts bottomed out and the journey back began. This reflection and subsequent view of where you are now gives hope and joy to continue to keep going and hit the finish line.
As stated earlier, this finish line, is the beginning of your new life of being in control of your mental wellness and having the strategies, tips and resources available to see triggers, make time for yourself and move forwards each day. Knowing that you are in charge and regardless of a bad day or week, these tools will get you back to wellness again much quicker than previously. Will it be easy? No, is it achievable? 100% it is, and that’s where community and support comes in. When you are well, continue to do those routines that give you a positive outlook on life and what the future looks like.
Two things to look at for this week if you are able:
1) A bucket list
Bucket lists don’t have to be a World Cruise or similar, it
can be 5 things that are achievable for you, but aren’t easily attainable
without work. Say if you have been anxious of crowds for a long time, visiting
a museum would be a challenge, but would be rewarding once achieved. Bucket
lists can be amended regularly to push yourself even further.
2) A reverse bucket list
Pick out 5 things that you are a real accomplishment for you
from your life to date. Things like a great school report, or exam result, then
if you are a parent, becoming a father might be one, a promotion at work, or
helping someone in your community who was going through a tough time.
Try these this week and it shows what achievements you have
made in your life and what you want to do in the future.
Have a good week