Life’s challenges don’t always come with a warning. These tough moments can feel overwhelming, but moving forward isn’t about pretending things didn’t happen; it’s about finding strength in the struggle. As Maya Angelou famously said, “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” In facing life’s obstacles, you must find a way to rise stronger and set an example for those you love. Remember, your children are watching how you deal with adversity. And when you need a reminder, wear your “GRATEFUL” shirt to reinforce the strength that comes with gratitude.
Give Yourself Space to Feel and Heal
True healing begins when you allow yourself to feel what’s happening inside. Glennon Doyle reminds us, “The only way to get to the other side is to go through it.” Make time each day to feel and process — whether that’s journaling, meditating, or simply breathing deeply. Let your
“GRATITUDE Gangsta” tee remind you that healing isn’t always pretty, but there’s power in honoring where you are.
Show Yourself the Same Compassion You Give Others
As a woman, you often have a deep well of compassion for everyone else, but you can be tough on yourself. Kristin Neff says, “When we give ourselves compassion, we are opening our hearts in a way that can transform our lives.” Next time you catch yourself thinking, “I should have done
more. I could have done better,” replace it with, “I did the best I could.” Practicing self-kindness can help you rebuild and move forward. Grab our “Peace, Love, GRATITUDE, and Kindness” tee, or repeat it as a mantra next time you’re about to be unkind to yourself.
Recognize Small Victories Along the Way
One way to move through challenges is to practice GRATITUDE by looking for and celebrating your wins. Elizabeth Gilbert encourages us to “learn to live with the mess and celebrate what’s good.” Savor the taste and smell of your morning coffee, moments of connection with your kids,
or the few minutes of quiet you have for yourself. Small wins don’t always seem groundbreaking, but they make a big difference – they add up. Celebrate ALL your W.I.N.S. – large and small.
Envision the Future You Want to Create
Even if you’re not “ready”, begin to reimagine your life on the other side of hardship. C.S. Lewis reminds us, “There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” Visualize the woman and mom you want to be, letting her inspire you to take one small step to feel better.
With each step, you’re not just surviving; you’re moving forward. The “Manifest Miracles” tee can serve as your daily reminder of the powerful future you’re creating.
Final Thoughts: Rise Stronger and Wiser
Moving through life’s hardest moments takes courage, patience, and a willingness to grow. It’s not about forgetting what happened but using it to build resilience and compassion. Remember Oprah’s words: “The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams.” For yourself and your family, rise, heal, and embrace the journey ahead. If you need some support, join the Living in GRATITUDE Today Movement and get your G.A.S. (GRATITUDE Action Steps) delivered to your email each weekday morning.
